Vol. 510 No. 6
128 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she has satisfied herself with the fact that the construction of the Sandyford to St. Stephen's Green Luas line will not commence for a full year after the making of the light rail order. [23406/99]
In developing a light railway system the most significant single aspect of the construction phase is the laying of the trackbed and rails and the erection of the overhead electrical lines. However, as with all major projects, before the main construction work can be done, there is a very substantial amount of preparatory work to be undertaken.
The light railway order – LRO – in respect of the Sandyford to St. Stephen's Green light rail line came into effect on 8 November 1999. CIE is already making progress on the process work including the tendering for the major contracts. Preparatory physical work ranging from items as mundane as clearing the old trackway to major tasks including the relocation of utilities will also be undertaken before construction begins. There will, therefore, be real and significant progress in the coming months.
I understand that to the outside observer a project only becomes tangible when they see recognisable elements being put in place. However, it would give entirely the wrong impression to suggest that because actual construction is not under way, no work is taking place. The target completion date for construction is summer 2003. The advisory action group which I appointed to oversee the planning and implementation of the light rail project, is reviewing the potential for an earlier date for commencement of services.
