185. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the Cork metropolitan transport strategy. [31438/26]

Integrated land use planning and transport planning in turn is led through Metropolitan Area Transport Strategies (MATS) which set out programmes of proposed transport investment in active travel, bus and rail for each city over a 20-year period.

These transport strategies are consistent with the spatial planning objectives in the National Planning Framework and the relevant Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy and align with the EU legal requirement for Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs) for Urban Nodes.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) is responsible for developing and implementing the MATS to provide high quality, accessible, sustainable transport across Ireland.

The Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy was published in 2020. It was prepared by the NTA in collaboration with Cork City Council, Cork County Council and Transport Infrastructure Ireland. The NTA intends to commence a full review and update of the CMATS later in 2026. It is envisaged that the NTA will engage external specialist support, including engineering and strategic planning expertise, to assist in preparing the updated strategy.

A comprehensive stakeholder engagement programme will form a central part of the review. This will include consultation with key local and national stakeholders, local authorities, transport operators, and the wider public which will include a public consultation process.

In the meantime work continues on projects under the 2020 Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy. Noting the NTA's responsibility 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 working days.