Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 April 2025
430. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport if the location of the MetroLink south terminus will be moved if the railway order is approved; and if so, the process involved in such a change. [19724/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, as 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 the development of the Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area.
The Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2022-2042 is the statutory transport strategy for the region and sets out a range of proposals for delivery over the period to 2042. In relation to metro, and as outlined the Strategy, the analysis conducted concluded that a metro line from Swords to Dublin City Centre via Dublin Airport would be the key area of focus for metro delivery out to 2042. This route terminates at Charlemont in the City Centre.
There were a number of studies and reports that informed the development of Dublin's integrated transport system, as set out in the Strategy, including feasibility studies for a metro to Knocklyon and a metro to Sandyford. The Strategy states that the southwest Dublin area is best served by bus rapid transit (such as BusConnects) and light rail (such as Luas) for the foreseeable future. The Strategy also notes that the MetroLink terminus at Charlemont can facilitate any potential future metro expansions to serve the southwest, south or southeast of Dublin area should sufficient demand develop.
The Programme for Government commits to commissioning an independent feasibility study into continuing MetroLink from the city to southwest Dublin.
The NTA reviews and updates the Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area every six years, and the process to update the current strategy is likely to commence next year. Therefore, the consideration of a southwestern extension of MetroLink may be examined as part of or related to this update.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the manner, 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.
