Ivor Callely
Question:184 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the progress with the construction phase of the proposed Dublin light rail lines; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8680/00]
Written Answers. - Light Rail Project.
To date, I have granted light railway orders to CIE for the Tallaght to Abbey Street, line A, and Sandyford to St. Stephen's Green, line B, lines. I have also approved CIE's proposal to extend line A to Connolly Station in so far as it relates to the development from Abbey Street to Store Street. It is my intention to make the required light railway order for this section of the line when an acceptable proposal for a link between the Store Street stop and Connolly Station has been received.
Preliminary physical work began on line A in September 1999 and the project has been proceeding since. The work to date has mainly consisted of utilities diversion. The tender procedure for the main construction contract for the line is well advanced and is expected to be awarded in August of this year. The indicative timetable is for completion of the construction of the line by end 2002, with services commencing in early 2003.
Preliminary physical work on line B began recently and the main construction contract for this line is also due to be awarded in August 2000. The completion date for the line is set for early 2003.