I propose to take Questions Nos. 395 and 396 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 including MetroLink.
The Deputy will be aware that the NTA's recently concluded consultation process in relation to MetroLink, and its previous consultation process held last year, are not statutory consultation processes. Those recent consultations are completely separate from any later statutory consultations that will be required by the planning authorities once an application for a Railway Order has been made. I am informed that such an application is expected to be made around Quarter 2 of 2020; therefore, the formal, statutory consultation process will take place following that.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my private office if she does not receive a reply within 10 days.