Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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114. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to provide an update on the funding for the redevelopment of rail lines, particularly the Navan line, in conjunction with Department of Transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17514/24]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority, or NTA, has statutory responsibility for transport planning in the Greater Dublin Area, including County Meath.

The NTA's Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area, which I approved early last year, sets out a framework for transport investment across the region over a 20-year period from 2022 to 2042, and it provides a clear statement of transport planning policy for Counties Meath, Dublin, Louth, Kildare and Wicklow. Having a transport strategy is important to ensure we assess how the different modes can deliver for the region and also how we can sequence delivery to maximise benefits and deliver value for money.

The issue of a rail connection between Dublin and Navan was re-examined as part of the development of the Transport Strategy. That re-examination supported the development of a rail line to Navan and the final Strategy now includes delivery of the line over the medium term.

I am pleased that the NTA has allocated funding to Iarnród Éireann for the establishment of a design team to commence work in 2024. This work will involve the route option selection, planning and design phases of the project. Iarnród Éireann has commenced the procurement process for this pre-construction phase of the project. It is anticipated that a route options public consultation will take place in late 2025 or early 2026.

Following this design work and public consultation process, the project will then advance through the relevant Approval Gates and planning process as required under the Infrastructure Guidelines.

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.