80. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the proposal to extend the DART to Wicklow town; the work that has been done to date to support this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39888/24]

As the Deputy is aware, as Minister for Transport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport in Ireland, including in relation to the rail network. The National Transport Authority, or NTA, has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, including through the Wicklow Capacity Enhancement Study.

Initial planning/design work is ongoing to establish the feasibility of operating an hourly DART service to/from Wicklow town and Dublin using battery-electric trains that could operate along the un-electrified section between Greystones and Wicklow.

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.