Rail Network

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 May 2023

Thursday, 4 May 2023

Questions (49)

Catherine Connolly

Question:

49. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 54 of 2 March 2023, if he will provide a status update on the promised feasibility study for light rail in Galway; the timeline for the feasibility study; the status of the specialist team tasked with assisting the National Transport Agency in the updating of the Galway Transport Strategy; the membership of the specialist team; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20667/23]

Written answers

Minister for Transport

The NTA, in conjunction with Galway City Council and Galway County Council have begun the process of developing the Galway Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (GMATS), which will replace the current Galway Transport Strategy.

Following an open tender competition process, the NTA has appointed consultants to manage and develop the new strategy which will include a feasibility study of light rail.

The NTA will undertake a comprehensive public consultation exercise on a draft GMATS as part of the development process and I expect that to take place later this year.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for further information. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51