Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 October 2025
274. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport In view of the renewed consultation on Cork light rail proposals, if he will release the costed feasibility and ridership study, commit to fast-tracking funding and planning approval for example, statutory orders for the Cork route with defined milestones; and if central Government will underwrite cost overruns or reduce risk for the local authority or developers. [57123/25]
View answerAs 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 proposed Cork Light Rail, or Luas Cork, project.
Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in partnership with the NTA, invited members of the public to take part in a non-statutory public consultation of the emerging preferred route for Luas Cork between April and June of this year. Approximately 1,000 responses were received as part of the public consultation and the issues highlighted in those submissions have been included in the post consultation report published by TII earlier this month.
It is currently too early in the project lifecycle to give a precise capital cost or budget for the Luas Cork project. This is because the project has yet to go through the planning and procurement stages. The Government will decide whether this project proceeds to construction after the planning process and tendering/procurement is complete in accordance with the Infrastructure Guidelines. Officials in my Department engage with the NTA on a regular basis in relation to the budget and progress of all major transport projects, including Luas Cork.
Noting the NTA's 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 working days.
