Funding for completion of the re-opening of the Phoenix Park Tunnel was provided in the Government's new Capital Plan "Building on Recovery: Infrastructure & Capital Investment 2016-2021" published recently. The re-opening of the tunnel will allow commuters on the Kildare to Dublin Heuston line have the option of direct services to Connolly, Tara, Pearse and Grand Canal Dock Stations. Funding is also being allocated under my Department's Public Transport Investment programme next year to facilitate commencement of these new services in autumn of 2016.
Responsibility for the implementation and development of public transport infrastructure projects in the Greater Dublin Area is a function of the National Transport Authority (NTA). Therefore I have also referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply in relation to the specific issues raised about the services that will be provided. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.