Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 April 2025
431. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport the amount spent on the pre-approval stage of the MetroLink; the intended spend on each of the next stages, including the design, build packages involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19725/25]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, as 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.
I understand that approximately €243 million has been spent to support the development of MetroLink up to the end of March 2025.
The Preliminary Business Case for MetroLink included a range of potential capital costs from €7.16bn to €12.25bn in 2021 prices, excluding VAT. An updated and more definite cost estimate for MetroLink will be known after the planning and procurement stages, and will be brought to Government for consideration at Approval Gate 3 of the Infrastructure Guidelines.
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. Officials in my Department engage with the NTA on a regular basis in relation to the budget and progress of all major projects, including MetroLink.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the manner, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
