I have received from Cabra Community Council its proposals for the development of a rail link from central Dublin through Cabra junction linking the Dublin-Maynooth line, Dublin Airport and Swords, including connections with Heuston Station and the Luas. The Dublin Transportation Office strategy, A Platform for Change, is the accepted blueprint of the transport needs for the greater Dublin area. The proposal for a metro in Dublin is part of the DTO's strategy. Phase 1 of the metro involves a line from Blanchardstown and Dublin Airport to the city centre and to Shanganagh.
The Railway Procurement Agency – RPA – charged with procuring the metro, has concentrated its work on developing the outline business case for phase 1. In addition, Iarnród Éireann has submitted a preliminary proposal for a heavy rail link from Connolly Station to the airport. The outline business case for phase 1 of the metro has been received from the RPA and I intend to bring recommendations to the Government in the coming weeks, including an assessment of the heavy rail link.