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National Development Plan

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 November 2021

Tuesday, 16 November 2021

Ceisteanna (96)

James Lawless

Ceist:

96. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an overview of NSO 4 of the National Development Plan 2021-2030; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55875/21]

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Freagraí scríofa

At the outset it should be noted that my Department, in carrying out its role in coordinating the NDP Review, does not consider the merit of individual projects or sectoral policy strategies as this is primarily a matter for individual Departments and Agencies. In the case of NSO 4 this would be the Minister for Transport.

However I would be happy to give an overview of this NSO which aims to enhance sustainable mobility throughout Ireland. Investing in high-quality sustainable mobility will improve citizens’ quality of life, support our transition to a low-carbon society and enhance our economic competitiveness.

The Department of Transport’s forthcoming National Investment Framework for Transport in Ireland (NIFTI) will set out the prioritisation for future investment in the land transport network to support the delivery of the NSOs. In addition, all five cities have developed, or are developing, metropolitan area transport strategies.

This NDP represents a step-change in the approach towards funding active travel in Ireland. Over the next 10 years approximately €360 million per annum will be invested in walking and cycling infrastructure in cities, towns and villages across the country, including Greenways.

BusConnects will overhaul the current bus system in all five cities, for example the proposal for BusConnects Cork has just been published for consultation with an increase of 36 per cent in bus services with shorter waits and more direct routes. Greater public transport services across rural Ireland are also planned through the Connecting Ireland bus programme.

The DART+ programme will be a cornerstone of rail investment within the lifetime of Project Ireland 2040 and represents the single biggest investment in the Irish rail network.

Phase 1 of Cork Commuter Rail Programme will cost €185 million and create a suburban rail network between Mallow, Midleton and Cobh by 2026. Funding provided over the next ten years will also support the further development of commuter rail in Galway and Limerick.

Metrolink is still scheduled to go to planning next year (2022) and is still scheduled to be constructed as soon as possible after that.

These are just some of the many investments which will be delivered under this NSO in the coming years to support Project Ireland 2040. Further details on projects, by NSO, can be found on the investment tracker on gov.ie/2040.

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