Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 May 2024
147. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date in the preparation of the extension of the DART to Maynooth and further afield to such locations as Kilcock and Enfield, with a view to catering for the commuter belt across north County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22324/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, including the DART+ Programme and its constituent projects.
As part of the DART+ Programme, the DART+ West project will provide an electrified and more frequent rail service to passengers between Maynooth and M3 Parkway and Dublin city centre. A Railway Order application for the project was submitted to An Bord Pleanála in July 2022 and an oral hearing held in the second half of last year. A planning decision from An Bord Pleanála is awaited.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter and the specific issues raised by the Deputy, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
