Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 May 2026
194. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Transport whether an accessibility and equality assessment has been carried out in respect of the proposed interchange arrangements at Howth Junction under the DART+ Coastal North proposals, particularly regarding the potential impact on wheelchair users, older persons and parents with buggies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38684/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra195. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Transport the engagement his Department has had with Iarnród Éireann regarding concerns raised by residents and commuters about the proposed reduction in direct DART connectivity between Howth and Dublin city centre under the DART+ Coastal North project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38685/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra199. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Transport whether additional public consultation or stakeholder engagement is planned in relation to the DART+ Coastal North proposals affecting communities in Dublin Bay North; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38689/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 194, 195 and 199 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the provision of public transport infrastructure and services within the Greater Dublin Area. In the case of the DART+ programme, the NTA fulfils this statutory remit in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann.
In light of the above, I have forwarded the Deputy's questions to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
Pending this more detailed response, I note that accessibility has been considered at every step of the DART+ programme. As one example, the new DART+ Fleet will offer enhanced accessibility with each low-height doorway equipped with an automatic retractable step, offering the potential for unassisted level access from suitable platforms. Platform enhancements are also planned.
With regard to public consultation on DART+ Coastal North, Iarnród Éireann has carried out a robust public consultation process. Three main opportunities having been provided for customers, residents, and businesses adjacent to the route, as well as other stakeholders, to provide feedback to the scheme development and Railway Order approval process.
Finally, with regard to service frequency and capacity, the DART+ programme will double city centre capacity from 26,000 passengers per hour per direction to 52,000 during peak hours.
