Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 May 2024
77. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 77 of 21 March 2024, the status of the feasibility study for light rail in Galway, which is being undertaken as part of the Galway metropolitan area transport strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21900/24]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA), in conjunction with Galway City Council and Galway County Council, is currently developing the Galway Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (GMATS). The new strategy will replace the existing strategy adopted in 2016 and will provide a long-term strategic planning framework for the delivery of transport and integrated development of transport infrastructure and services in the Galway Metropolitan Area.
As part of the development of the new GMATS, mode specific analysis is being undertaken including a light rail feasibility study and this study is now substantially complete. After the draft GMATS has been finalised, the NTA will undertake a non-statutory public consultation process which will give stakeholders the opportunity to share their views on the draft strategy.
Given the NTA's role in the development of the GMATS, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for the latest available information in relation to its development. Please contact my office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
