389. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport to outline the work undertaken by Iarnród Eireann in developing the preferred route for the Four North project; whether the emerging preferred option should now be available for public viewing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61420/26]

Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA), including the preparation of the Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy. The NTA also manages the wider portfolio of public transport investment nationally.

Pending this response I note that FourNorth has been co-funded by the European Union's Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), and the Department of Transport to help advance its design, these studies that are now progressing through their final stages. These studies will help support the preparation of appraisal documents required under the Infrastructure Guidelines. A public consultation on the Emerging Preferred Option for FourNorth is planned to take place later this year. The further development of FourNorth will be considered as part of the update of the GDA Transport Strategy which is due to commence next year.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct, detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.