Liz McManus
Question:39 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she has satisfied herself with progress on Luas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8702/01]
Written Answers. - Light Rail Project.
In May 1998, I set an indicative timetable for the construction and completion of the light rail lines from Tallaght to Connolly Station and from Sandyford to St. Stephen's Green. I am satisfied that, based on progress to date, the target date of 2003 for commencement of services will be achieved. Preparatory work, including utilities diversion, has been progressing steadily on the Tallaght to Abbey Street line. The construction of the Red Cow depot is now well under way and on schedule for completion in July 2001. On the Sandyford to St. Stephen's Green line, property acquisition and preparatory works are also progressing.
Contractors have been selected for the main construction elements of the project, involving mainly track-laying and cabling for all lines, and this work will commence shortly. The first tram is scheduled for delivery to Dublin in October 2001 and six trams per quarter will be delivered thereafter. The competition to select an operator for the system is progressing with a view to awarding the franchise in October 2001.
The light rail advisory and action group, that I established to oversee the timetable for the project, reported to me in February 2001. This report is available on the Department's website at www.dpe.ie. The group expressed concerns about the need for inter-agency co-ordination in a number of areas, such as the related developments at St. James's Hospital. I have asked my officials to pursue these matters with the light rail project office and the agencies concerned as a matter of urgency. However, the group has assured me that the target date of 2003 for commencement of passenger services remains feasible.