260. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Transport in view of the fact that the railway order has been granted, to outline a timeline for when works on the Luas Finglas line will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [68012/26]

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.

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 withdrawal of a 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 Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) is currently preparing the Approval Gate 2 documentation, which is expected to be submitted to my Department and the NTA in the coming months.

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.