As 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, in consultation with Iarnród Éireann, the DART+ West project.
The DART+ West project plans to extend DART services from the City Centre to the M3 Parkway and Maynooth. A Railway Order was granted approval by An Bord Pleanála in July 2024 for DART+ West, 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.
Procurement for DART+ West and South West is progressing with pre-qualification questionnaire (PQQ) notices for Design and Build works recently advertised in May 2025.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter and the specific issues raised by the Deputy, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.