Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 November 2008
130 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Transport when the construction of metro west which will connect Tallaght and Ballymun through Clondalkin, Liffey Valley and Blanchardstown will commence as promised in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39926/08]
View answer140 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Transport the estimated commencement of works and completion date for metro west; the estimated commencement of works and completion date for Lucan Luas line F; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39836/08]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 130 and 140 together.
The emerging preferred route for Metro West was announced by the RPA in July 2007. A further round of consultation is now underway to provide greater definition to certain elements of the route after which the RPA will proceed with the preparation for a Railway Order application to An Bórd Pleanála during 2009.
On the 10th of October 2008, the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) published the emerging preferred route corridor for the Luas line to Lucan (Line F) following extensive public consultation. Having selected the route corridor, the RPA is now undertaking the next phase of consultation with key stakeholders which will feed into the detailed design of the line. Following completion of this work the RPA will submit a Railway Order application to An Bord Pleanála in respect of this line.
The start and completion dates of metro west and Luas Line F will be determined by the outcome of the statutory approval and procurement processes and the funding allocation available during the current difficult economic climate. The provision of increased capacity will be a key priority in determining public transport investment priorities in the period ahead.
