As Minister for Transport, 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 in the Greater Dublin Area, including the DART+ Programme. Capital funding is being provided to the NTA for this purpose.
There has recently been progress in relation to the DART+ West project. A Railway Order was granted by An Bord Pleanála in July 2024 subject to certain conditions, notably that the proposed depot west of Maynooth not be constructed due to concerns about flood risk. Iarnród Éireann and the NTA are currently engaging on the submission of a new Railway Order for a depot. Work is progressing with a view to moving this project into procurement and thereafter into the construction stage in the coming years.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter and the specific issue raised by the Deputy, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a specific response. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.