Vol. 470 No. 6
91 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the views expressed or submissions, if any, he has received from Government backbenchers regarding their concerns over the proposed light rail system and routes for Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19597/96]
I have repeatedly asked public representatives to take an active part in the consultation process on the light rail project. Many, from all parties, have done so and have made their views known either to the CIE project team or to me directly. Where submissions have been made to me I have brought them to the attention of the project team for their consideration. The issues being raised by public representatives cover essentially the same ground as those being addressed in the wider consultation process.
92 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the current position regarding the proposed light rail system for Dublin; the targets and time schedules set in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19598/96]
The CIE project team are currently engaged in an extensive public consultation programme and in the finalisation of an application for a light railway order for the Tallaght to Dundrum route. Once I have received that application the statutory timetable set out in the Transport (Dublin Light Rail) Act, 1996, will come into effect. I expect that a public inquiry will be held early in 1997 and that project should be in a position to commence construction in the second half of 1997. This would enable the first phase to be in operation by 2001.
I have set out the position on the Ballymun route in a reply to another question on today's Order Paper.
