Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 November 2025
111. Deputy Edward Timmins asked the Minister for Transport the breakdown of the planned investment on the skeleton train service from Rosslare to Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63504/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) including, in consultation with Iarnród Éireann, in relation to the rail network.
The DART+ Coastal South project involves an improvement to DART services on the existing DART line south of Dublin city, with the current focus on enhancing services between Bray and Greystones. Iarnród Éireann have commenced with a non-statutory public consultation on the Emerging Preferred Option for DART+ Coastal South, Stage 1 Bray to Greystones Capacity Enhancements, which will run from October to December 2025.
In addition, the NTA's GDA Transport Strategy 2022-2042 includes a recommendation to extend the DART service to Wicklow town. I understand this extension can be facilitated through utilising the new battery-electric DART carriages, which are currently undergoing certification and safety testing. The NTA is currently examining this issue with a view to progressing the extension around 2029.
The recently concluded Review of the National Development Plan has confirmed the Department of Transport’s annual capital allocations from 2026 to 2030. The Department is currently reviewing key programmes and projects in the transport sector in the context of that capital funding envelope, including elements of the DART+ Programme, and a decision on a programme of delivery within the available funding will be made in the coming weeks.
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.
