Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
217. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Transport whether the NTA has engaged even in exploratory discussions with State landowners along the t-route of a possible Metro South extension from either Stephen's Green or Charlemont that would travel via Cathal Brugha Barracks, for example; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14527/24]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that the Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2022-2042 is the statutory transport strategy for the region and sets out a range of ambitious proposals for delivery over the period to 2042. In relation to metro, and as outlined in the Strategy, the analysis conducted concluded that a metro line from Swords to Dublin City Centre via Dublin Airport would be the key area of focus for metro delivery out to 2042.
There were a number of studies and reports that informed the development of Dublin's integrated transport system, as set out in the Strategy, including feasibility studies for a metro to Knocklyon and a metro to Sandyford. While the Strategy states that the south Dublin area is best served by bus rapid transit (such as BusConnects) and light rail (such as Luas) for the foreseeable future, it notes that the MetroLink terminus at Charlemont can facilitate any potential future metro extensions to serve the south west, south or south east of the Dublin area should sufficient demand develop.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) reviews and updates the Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area every 6 years and so the issue of a southern extension of MetroLink may be reconsidered in future. Noting the NTA’s responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question in relation to the area raised to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
