Written answer
Rail Network
418. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Transport if any grid connection assessments have been prepared for or received by Iarnród Éireann, the NTA or relevant agencies regarding DART+ South-West, including any statements of grid adequacy or required upgrades; the findings in terms of any impediments to the immediate rollout of the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42118/26]
Comment on this
419. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Transport the internal assessments, modelling or analysis carried out by Iarnród Éireann, the NTA or relevant agencies on projected electrical load, traction power demand, or the suitability of existing grid infrastructure for DART+ South-West; the results of such analysis in terms of the impediments to rolling out the service immediately; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42119/26]
Comment on this
420. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware of any risk assessments identifying potential constraints or limitations in the electricity grid that could affect the delivery or operation of DART+ South-West; if so, to outline same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42120/26]
Comment on this
422. Deputy Paul Nicholas Gogarty asked the Minister for Transport the overall projected cost in current terms for the electrical grid assessment and grid upgrades to specifically facilitate the rollout of the publicised DART+ South-West Project; the amount of that funding which is currently accessible; the length of time any such required works should realistically take; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42122/26]
Comment on this
I propose to take Questions Nos. 418, 419, 420 and 422 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.
With regard to the Deputy's specific questions regarding the electrical grid, investment in the grid to accommodate individual projects is a matter for EirGrid and ESB-Networks. Both Iarnród Éireann and the NTA have engaged with these bodies on issues such as power supply, and I have forwarded the Deputy's questions to the NTA for direct, detailed reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.