Vol. 396 No. 4
33 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for the Environment the present position regarding the provision of a busway along the old Harcourt Street line, Dublin 2; whether consideration has been given to providing a light rail/tramway system along the line; the Government's time-scale for implementing either of the aforementioned proposals; and the moneys which have been allocated for the provision of either a busway or a light rail/tramway system through EC structural funds.
The Operational Programme for Roads and other Transport Infrastructure, a draft of which is currently under discussion with the EC Commission, proposes the construction of a busway along the old Harcourt Street railway to Dundrum, commencing in 1993 at an estimated cost of £6 million. However, as I indicated in reply to Parliamentary Question No. 15 on 9 May last, before a firm decision is taken, this proposal will be the subject of a detailed evaluation by the agencies concerned. The evaluation will include an assessment of alternative options such as a light rail line and will look at issues such as viability, costs and engineering aspects.
If it is decided following the evaluation to proceed with the project, it will be fully funded by State road grants and EC assistance.
