Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 February 2024
55. Deputy Matt Shanahan asked the Minister for Transport if he could provide an annual breakdown of the total cost incurred to date of the Metrolink North project; to detail the measures put in place to ensure costs are moderated and controlled; if he can offer a forward-looking statement on envisaged expenditure in the coming years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4964/24]
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 MetroLink.
Between the start of 2018 and end-December 2023, a total of €161.68 million was invested in MetroLink. Expenditure prior to 2018 was on the old Metro North scheme.
While it is too early to give a precise project cost, as it has yet to go through the planning and procurement stages, the Preliminary Business Case provided a range of potential costs from €7.16bn to €12.25bn, with €9.5bn the indicative central estimate, all excluding Value-Added Tax (in 2021 prices). Approximately three-quarters of the cost will be paid for by the exchequer and one quarter financed by a Public Private Partnership during the construction phase.
In July 2023, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) appointed a Client Partner, led by Turner & Townsend, to support the efficient and effective delivery of the next phases of the project.
TII has commenced recruiting key staff for the senior leadership team. The key initial appointments from this leadership team will be the Programme Director, the Head of Procurement and Contracts, the Advanced and Enabling Works Manager and the Client Partner Manager.
In line with the Infrastructure Guidelines, TII is currently preparing the Project Design, Planning and Procurement Strategy for MetroLink.
The final budget for MetroLink will not be set until after the planning process and completion of tendering and procurement, with the Government having the final decision about whether to proceed to construction. The NTA as the Approving Authority and the Department will continue to monitor costs as the project progresses.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's questions in relation to the areas raised to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
