I propose to take Questions Nos. 77 and 91 together.
As the Deputy is likely aware, transport investment in all the major cities is guided by the development of metropolitan area transport strategies. Since 2016, transport strategies have been approved and published in respect of the Greater Dublin Area, Galway and the Cork Metropolitan Area. This year consultations have commenced on a review of the Greater Dublin Area strategy and will commence on a revised draft of the Limerick-Shannon strategy and an initial draft of the Waterford strategy.
This move toward evidence based, plan-led transport planning for our major cities is to be welcomed and allows for consideration of all relevant issues and the potential role all modes of transport can play in addressing those issues. I would also note that providing this type of long-term investment framework represents international best practice in the area of transport planning.
In relation to Galway, the Deputy is aware that the issue of light rail in Galway city was comprehensively examined as part of the development of the Galway Transport Strategy. The Strategy concluded that a bus based public transport system, supported by various active travel and public realm improvements, represents the most appropriate system for Galway over the period considered by the Strategy.
I am eager to see progress on the delivery of the Galway Transport Strategy and welcome the non-statutory consultations held last year on two of the key Galway BusConnects corridors. I look forward to the delivery of much improved active travel infrastructure in the next few years as well as improvements to the commuter rail network, such as the proposals in relation to Ceannt Station, Oranmore Station and indeed the Athenry to Galway rail corridor generally.
I agree with the Deputy that given the time that has elapsed since publication of the Galway Transport Strategy there is a need to review it and take stock of developments since its publication. I understand that such a review will commence next year and will allow for consideration again of the issue of light rail but importantly that consideration will take place within the overall framework of the strategy itself. In the meantime I look forward to the Deputy’s support as we seek to implement improvements to Galway’s active travel, bus and rail infrastructure.
