I propose to take Questions Nos. 13 and 21 together.
The papers presented at the seminar held in Trinity College on 8 March last, at which my Department were represented, are being considered in the context of possible future strategies for the development of public transport infrastructure in Dublin. In this regard, I have extended the remit of the high level working group, which was originally established to assess and report on the most suitable transport option for the Harcourt Street line and the Tallaght area, to enable the group to examine the possibility of developing a light rail system for Dublin and to devise a blueprint for such a system. I have requested the working group to submit their report to me as a matter of urgency.
In addition, I have extended an invitation to the private sector to submit proposals to me for the development of a modern public transport system for Dublin. Already considerable interest is being shown by a number of international transport companies in association with local, private and public interests for the development of an integrated light rail system for Dublin. However, a number of issues must be evaluated comprehensively, including the possible network of operations and the financing of the investment involved. These matters will be examined in detail by the working group.
Finally, I can assure the House that I am determined to encourage the development of innovative solutions to Dublin's public transport problems.