Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 July 2023
73. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Transport when he was informed of the delay for the public consultation of a project (details supplied); and the issue that is halting this project going to public consultation. [34547/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. In both of those areas there have been significant developments since this Government came into office, with last year's publication of a new Sustainable Mobility Policy and its five-year action plan providing strong policy support to the continued design and development of light rail projects in the Greater Dublin Area and Cork. I am also delighted to say that this strong policy support has been backed up by increased levels of Exchequer funding, which is supporting the development of projects such as Cork Light Rail Transit.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has agreed responsibility for the implementation and development of public transport in our cities, including Cork Light Rail.
I met with officials from the NTA on Friday 30 June, and at this meeting was informed about a delay to the public consultation of the emerging preferred route to allow for further consideration of route options.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in relation to this matter, I am forwarding your query to the NTA for direct reply in respect of the specific details of the delay. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
