Public Transport

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023

Tuesday, 25 July 2023

Questions (247)

Catherine Connolly

Question:

247. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 24 of 22 June 2023, the status of the promised feasibility study on light rail in Galway; the expected timeline for the public consultation on the draft Galway metropolitan area transport strategy; the expected timeline for the publication of the completed updated strategy; the value of the contract awarded to a consultancy firm (details supplied) for the management and development of the updated strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36750/23]

Written answers

Minister for Transport

As the Deputy is aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA), in conjunction with Galway City Council and Galway County Council, have begun the process of developing the Galway Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (GMATS).  The new strategy will replace the current Galway Transport Strategy. 

Following an open tender competition, the NTA 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 later this year as part of the development process.

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