Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 May 2024
115. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport the amount he has allocated to a project to proceed to planning in full (details supplied); whether any requests for further funding have been received by his Department; if he intends to fulfil those funding requests; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20262/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including light rail.
The Cork Light Rail project seeks to provide a high capacity, high quality east west public transport corridor connecting Ballincollig in the west to Mahon Point in the east via the City Centre, as identified in the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS). This is with a view to delivering an accessible, integrated transport network that enables the sustainable growth of the Cork Metropolitan Area for the decades to come.
Final decisions on funding for large infrastructure projects, such as Cork Light Rail, are made as the project progresses through the planning and approval process.
The NTA can provide further detail on the progress of the project and, noting their responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
