I propose to take Questions Nos. 278 to 284, inclusive, 286 and 287 together.
The National Development Plan (NDP) 2018 to 2027 will enable extensive investment across Ireland's transport sector supporting the overall development of an integrated and sustainable national public transport system.
As stated in the NDP, €8.6 billion has been indicatively allocated over the period 2018 to 2027 toward the delivery of National Strategic Outcome 4 – Sustainable Mobility, of which the following is allocated toward specific programmes as raised by the Deputy:
- BusConnects €2.4 billion
- MetroLink €3 billion
- DART Expansion €2 billion.
In addition to the above, the NDP also commits toward the construction of a new National Train Control Centre, while the Deputy is presumably aware that the Phoenix Park Tunnel project is in fact already completed and open for passenger services. I am advised that the total capital cost of the project was €13.5 million.
In relation to maintenance of the heavy rail network, my Department provides annual capital funding to Iarnród Éireann for the maintenance and renewal of the network under the Infrastructure Manager Multi-Annual Contract (IMMAC) which is a requirement of EU law. Details of funding provided each year is published in the Company’s Annual Report. Under the current IMMAC, which is for the period 2014-2018, a total of €737.43 million has been allocated from the Exchequer to Iarnród Éireann. A new IMMAC is currently being finalised to cover the next reporting period.
It is worth noting that as part of the annual Estimates process, the multi-annual capital allocations for Government Departments under the NDP will be reviewed and extended annually on a rolling basis to cover the coming 5-year period. This will provide Government with an annual opportunity to review the allocations in light of any implementation issues arising and/or new priorities which may emerge as the NDP is implemented.
The NDP also commits to a full mid-term review of the Plan in 2022, to allow Government to take stock of progress in terms of delivery of the planned projects and programmes, and to allow Government to review and reaffirm its investment priorities. It is envisaged that the review will be carried out in order to prepare and publish a new updated 10-year plan for public capital investment in 2023, covering the period 2023 to 2032.
Noting the NTA's responsibility for implementation of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more detailed reply in relation to the various GDA projects. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.