Rail Network

Thursday, 28 May 2026

Questions (213, 214)

Paul McAuliffe

Question:

213. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the progression of approval gate two for the Luas Finglas project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40819/26]

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Paul McAuliffe

Question:

214. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the pre-qualification questionnaire for the Luas Finglas project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40820/26]

View answer

Written answers

Minister for Transport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 213 and 214 together.

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 including light rail.

Luas Finglas is an exciting project that has the potential to transform Finglas and the wider area for those who live and who work there.

Government's consent for approval for the project to proceed at Approval Gate 1 of the Infrastructure Guidelines was obtained on 22 October 2024. An Coimisiún Pleanála published its decision to grant the Luas Finglas Railway Order in October 2025. I warmly welcome the subsequent decision to withdraw the legal challenges, as it means that we now have full planning permission in place to move forward with the Luas Finglas extension.

Turning to the future of the project, the Deputy may be aware that Luas Finglas is one of the four light rail proposals identified for development and delivery within the lifetime of the NTA Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2022-2042. The project is identified in the Sectoral Investment Plan for Transport as part of the National Development Plan Review 2025. Specifically, under the Sectoral Investment Plan, the main construction works will commence by 2029, and some enabling works may commence beforehand.

I understand that the project team is currently preparing for future phases of the project, including drafting and updating the detailed business case, procurement strategy and tender documents.

Noting the NTA's responsibility the Luas Finglas project, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office, if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.

The referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.

Question No. 214 answered with Question No. 213.