Transport Minister Signals Potential Acceleration for Delayed Projects

The Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien, has indicated that the previously delayed Dart and Luas projects may see expedited timelines as part of the National Development Plan (NDP). This announcement follows the recent publication of the NDP, which allocates €24.3 billion for transport initiatives between 2026 and 2030.

Several rail projects, including the Dart+ South West, which aims to extend Dart services to Celbridge and Hazelhatch in County Kildare, had been expected to commence construction sooner. Despite receiving planning permission in November 2024, the NDP review now sets a construction timeframe of “2030+.”

Similarly, the Luas Green Line extension to Finglas, marking the first expansion of Dublin’s tram system since 2017, was granted permission last month by An Coimisiún Pleanála. Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) stated that upon starting construction, it could complete the project within four years, with services projected to begin in 2031 if government funding is secured. However, under the NDP review, construction is not set to start until 2029.

Green Party transport spokesperson Feljin Jose expressed concerns that deferring these rail projects would adversely impact commuters and hinder housing development along the routes. He emphasized, “A lot of housing around Adamstown and Clonburris was built in anticipation of Dart + South West. How can the Minister for Transport justify such delays?”

In response, Minister O’Brien clarified that the timelines presented in the NDP are “indicative” and allow for flexibility. “If we can move projects forward, we will. Dart + South West is something I’m absolutely committed to,” he stated during a recent address.

Regarding the Finglas Luas extension, O’Brien reiterated his intention to expedite the construction process, aiming to start work before 2029. He noted that the previous government had maintained a 2:1 funding ratio favoring public transport over road projects, but the current NDP allocates €10.1 billion for public transport compared to €9.7 billion for roads.

O’Brien firmly rejected claims that he is prioritizing road construction at the expense of public transport funding. “That is absolutely not true. There’s never been more investment in public transport services than in this NDP,” he asserted. He also highlighted the necessity of renewing the roads network, stating, “There has been a funding deficit within our road network too. If you talk to rural deputies or rural communities in particular, they will tell you the importance of having good quality roads from a road safety perspective as well for connectivity. It is not one or the other.”

Looking ahead, applications for the long-anticipated Navan to Dublin rail line and the Cork Luas are expected to be submitted before 2030, although construction on either project is not anticipated to commence during the current funding period. Additionally, construction is slated to begin on the Western Rail Corridor connecting Athenry in Galway to Claremorris in Mayo, alongside several significant road projects, including the Galway City Ring Road, which remains under consideration by An Coimisiún Pleanála, the Slane bypass, and upgrades to the Limerick to Foynes road.

These developments highlight a complex balancing act in addressing both public transport needs and road infrastructure in Ireland, amidst growing demands for sustainable and efficient transport solutions.