165. Deputy Paula Butterly asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider extending the proposed DART+ network northwards beyond Drogheda to include Dunleer, County Louth; if his Department has undertaken or plans to undertake any assessment of the feasibility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [66675/26]

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. It also has the day-to-day Approving Authority role for the overall DART+ programme, even where it extends beyond the Greater Dublin Area. In the case of DART+, the NTA fulfils its statutory remit in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann.

With regard to the Deputy's specific questions regarding the potential extension of the DART+ network to Dunleer, this is a matter for the NTA and I have forwarded the Deputy's questions to the company for a more detailed reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.