Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2019
589. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the engagement his Department has had and will have with the a State agency regarding a strategy (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27704/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, section 12 of the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008 provides for the making of a strategic transport plan, known as the transport strategy, by the National Transport Authority (NTA), in relation to the Greater Dublin Area.
The Act details the process by which the strategy shall be prepared, including its engagement with my Department. It requires the NTA to take account of various named policies and strategies and also requires the NTA to consult with various named stakeholders, including of course the general public and the Joint Oireachtas Committee.
The Act stipulates that, following these various consultations, the NTA shall submit a draft strategy to the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport for consideration and approval or otherwise.
In 2016 the then Minister approved the Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2016 to 2035 and the Strategy is available to view on the NTA's website.
The Strategy is vitally important in assisting with the sustainable development of the Greater Dublin Area and it is a statutory requirement that the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the GDA is consistent with the Strategy. This statutory integration of strategic transport and land-use planning reflects international best practice.
The Act also requires that following publication of the Strategy, that the NTA review it within 6 years and every 6 years afterwards. I understand that the NTA has indicated that this review will commence during the latter part of 2020.
