I propose to take Questions Nos. 13, 25 and 34 together.
Construction of the first light rail line from Tallaght-Abbey Street is expected to commence early next year. CIE is finalising firm budget estimates for this line to take account of the recommendations contained in the inspector's report on the public inquiry.
The first phase of the extended light rail project approved by Government includes two lines: Tallaght to Connolly Station and Sandyford to Ballymun and Dublin Airport. A preliminary estimate by CIE for the whole of this phase indicated a cost of £671 million. This estimate included provision for inflation and a substantial allowance for working capital requirements which would not normally be included in a capital cost estimate. When the necessary geotechnical work in respect of the underground section has been completed at the end of this year it will be possible to arrive at a more accurate estimate of the overall cost.
The Government is committed to ensuring that the necessary finance is available to implement the approved project. Funding for the project in 1999 and subsequent years will be addressed as part of the normal budgetary process when the Government prepares its annual public capital programme. A sum of £20 million has been included in my Department's Estimates for light rail this year. The light rail project will also be submitted for EU assistance under the next round of EU Structural and Cohesion Funding.
Arthur Andersen, consultants, who were appointed to advise my Department on a public-private partnership approach to the light rail project, are expected to submit their report early in March.