Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2026
297. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Transport whether MetroLink or any other major transport projects included in the National Development Plan are dependent on new or upgraded electricity grid connections; whether any such projects are subject to connection risk or sequencing issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3367/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra298. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Transport whether a cross departmental risk assessment has been undertaken on the interaction between electricity grid capacity and the delivery of transport projects under the National Development Plan; if so, whether this assessment has identified material delivery or cost risks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3370/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra299. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Transport how potential electricity grid capacity shortfalls are being factored into cost estimates, delivery schedules and risk management for major transport projects, including MetroLink; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3371/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 297 to 299, inclusive, together.
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 the project risk and schedule management.
The Department of Transport, together with the NTA, will continue to engage closely with key stakeholders, including ESB Networks, to help ensure that the necessary electricity capacity is in place to support the construction and operation of major public transport projects such as MetroLink, the expansion of the light rail network, and the electrification of the bus and heavy rail fleet. There is a multi-billion-euro programme of investment planned for both electricity networks and public transport infrastructure over the coming years, and all relevant parties will work to provide for the appropriate development of the electricity and transport sectors as part of wider decarbonisation goals.
Noting the NTA's responsibility regarding cost estimates, risk, and schedule management 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.
