Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 July 2026
377. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide a report on the progress made implementing the programme for Government commitments within his remit relating to MetroLink since the formation of the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55362/26]
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 (NDP) and NDP Review 2025. MetroLink will be able to carry a peak capacity of 20,000 passengers per hour per direction in the future.
MetroLink has seen significant developments over the last year. 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 This decision was subsequently subject to legal challenge, which, following successful mediation, has been withdrawn.
Following the Railway Order coming into operation, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) submitted documentation, including the Detailed Business Case, to the NTA and the Department at Approval Gate 2 (pre-tender) of the Infrastructure Guidelines earlier this year. The NTA and my Department are undertaking a integrated assurance process to accelerate review and approval times, rather than the usual sequential approach. This approach will maintain recent momentum gained on MetroLink while ensuring strong oversight at this stage, as the project prepares to move into detailed procurement. I expect to bring a recommendation to Cabinet shortly.
Construction of MetroLink is earmarked to commence over the coming years with a view to operation in the 2030s.
In addition, the Programme for Government commits to commissioning an independent feasibility study continuing MetroLink from the city to South West Dublin. The NTA published the Transport Strategy for the GDA 2022-2042 in January 2023. This strategy sets out a statutory framework for transport investment across the region over a 20-year period and provides a clear statement of transport planning policy for the GDA and must be reviewed every six years, with the next review due to be concluded by 2028. The independent feasibility study for a metro to South-West Dublin will be undertaken as part of this broader strategic review process.
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 days.
