I propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 60 together.
As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, including MetroLink.
In relation to a cost-benefit analysis, all expenditure of public money must comply with the requirements of the Public Spending Code and for projects such as MetroLink it is a requirement of that Code that a detailed business case be submitted to Government for its approval before the project can proceed to planning. I am informed that the NTA expects to submit a Railway Order application to An Bord Pleanála in Quarter 2 2020. I expect therefore that a such a detailed business case will be submitted to my Department in advance of that Railway Order application.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputies' questions to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.