635. Deputy Rory Hearne asked the Minister for Transport the reason funding has not been released under the National Development Plan for Luas Finglas; the current timeline for the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59088/26]

637. Deputy Rory Hearne asked the Minister for Transport the estimated completion date for the LUAS Finglas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59091/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 635 and 637 together.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure including light rail.

Luas Finglas is an exciting project that has the potential to transform Finglas and the wider area for those who live and who work there.

Government's consent for approval for the project to proceed at Approval Gate 1 of the Infrastructure Guidelines was obtained on 22 October 2024. An Coimisiún Pleanála published its decision to grant the Luas Finglas Railway Order in October 2025. I warmly welcome the subsequent decision to withdraw the legal challenges, as it means that we now have full planning permission in place to move forward with the Luas Finglas extension.

Luas Finglas is one of the four light rail proposals identified for development and delivery within the lifetime of the NTA Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2022-2042. The project is identified in the Sectoral Investment Plan for Transport as part of the National Development Plan Review 2025. Specifically, under the Sectoral Investment Plan, the main construction works will commence by 2029, and some enabling works may commence beforehand.

I understand that the project team is currently preparing for future phases of the project, including drafting and updating the detailed business case, procurement strategy, and tender documents.

Noting the NTA's responsibility the Luas Finglas project, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office within 10 days.