285. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport if Irish Rail will engage with local communities over the impact of electrification of the railway line and closures of level crossings at Coolmine, Clonsilla and Ashtown; and if so, if this will be held in Q4 2026. [65197/26]

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 question the plan for the development of DART+ West and engagement with the communities at Coolmine, Clonsilla and Ashtown is a matter for the NTA. I have forwarded the Deputy's questions to the NTA for direct, detailed reply on this matter. Please advise my private office if the Deputy does not receive a response within 10 working days.

Pending this more detailed response, I should like to note that DART+ West was subject to extensive public consultation prior to and as part of its Railway Order, which concluded with An Comisiúin Pleanála's conditional approval of the Railway Order in July 2024.

Significant progress has been made in relation to DART+ West, with funding allocated under the current National Development Plan for construction to commence on the project next year.