Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 July 2021
166. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Transport if there are plans to carry out a feasibility study of the south eastern railway line in County Wicklow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40293/21]
View answer168. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Transport if a feasibility study has been carried out on the use of battery powered trains on the Greystones south eastern line; if so, the stage plans are at; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40295/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 166 and 168 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, including any feasibility studies conducted.
The Deputy may be aware that the statutory Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area, including Wicklow is currently under review. The output of this review will provide for a revised twenty year framework for transport infrastructure and services across the region, including Wicklow.
In relation to the potential use of battery trains on the line south of Greystones, the DART+ programme extends as far as Greystones; however, I understand the optimal operational usage of fleet including battery electric fleet across the Greater Dublin Area network is being considered by the NTA and Iarnród Éireann.
Finally I would also note that there are plans to develop, and later implement, a programme of works on the rail line in Wicklow to address issues caused by coastal erosion.
In view of the NTA's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to it for direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
