Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 June 2023
192. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which it still remains possible to extend the DART beyond Kilcock, County Kildare, to serve an increasingly populous catchment area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30459/23]
View answer195. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport to provide an indicative timeline for the electrification of the Maynooth rail line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30462/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 192 and 195 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to 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 the DART+ Programme and its constituent projects.
The Deputies may be aware that the Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy 2022-2042 includes proposed extensions to the DART network, including to Kilcock, as longer-term interventions. This would be separate to the existing DART+ programme and subject to appraisal and funding considerations.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter and the specific issues raised by the Deputies, I have referred the Deputies' questions to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
