Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
172. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport to provide an updated timeline of construction for the MetroLink project following the judicial review and subsequent mediation between parties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2877/26]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has the statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA), which includes MetroLink.
As the Deputy will be aware, MetroLink will be a fully segregated and mostly underground new railway line between Swords and Dublin City Centre, the first of its kind in Ireland. It is a key project under the National Development Plan. MetroLink will be able to carry a peak capacity of 20,000 passengers per hour per direction in the future.
An Coimisiún Pleanála published its decision to grant the MetroLink Railway Order in October 2025. This decision was subsequently subject to legal challenge, which, following successful mediation, has been withdrawn. I warmly welcome the decision to withdraw the legal challenge, as we now have full planning permission and funding in place to move MetroLink towards procurement and construction.
A Detailed Project Brief and Procurement Strategy will be prepared for consideration at Approval Gate 2, in line with the Infrastructure Guidelines.
Construction of MetroLink is earmarked to commence over the coming years with a view to operation around the mid-2030s.
On Wednesday 12th October, Government approved my proposal to establish a dedicated MetroLink delivery body and the preparation of legislation to give effect to this proposal. Officials in my Department will now establish a working group consisting of relevant stakeholders, which will review practical and legislative issues to be addressed in established the dedicated MetroLink delivery body.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
