Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 November 2021
237. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if he will ensure that realignment of roads and bridges in the context of the extension and electrification of rail services throughout north County Kildare does not involve disadvantaging local communities and that road and bridge realignments outstanding for many years are satisfactorily dealt with in the course of the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53905/21]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the DART+ Programme which includes the extension and electrification of rail services in County Kildare.
As the Deputy will be aware, projects of this scale and nature require extensive consultations with a range of relevant stakeholders including the general public. As an example of such engagement, Iarnród Éireann, in consultation with the NTA, have recently concluded the second of two Public Consultations in relation to the DART+ West project to enable them to identify a preferred option for upgrading the line. This consultation followed on from submissions received during the first consultation which resulted in some amendments following due consideration of that received.
In view of the NTA's statutory responsibility regarding the specific issues raised, 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.
