KEY PUBLIC transport projects would go ahead despite Government cutbacks, Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey insisted.
He said those under construction would continue on schedule, and some, such as the Cork-Midleton line, phase one of the Western Rail Corridor, and the Luas extension to the docklands, would be completed next year. Other projects due to start shortly include the Citywest Luas line, the Navan rail line and the Dublin city centre resignalling.
“The adjustment in capital funding for public transport investment will not have a significant effect on the roll out of the Transport 21 . . . programme,” he said.
“The start and completion dates of public transport projects which have not yet commenced will be determined by the funding allocation available during the current difficult economic times.”
Fine Gael spokesman Fergus O’Dowd said the Minister was spending €70 million less in this year’s budget. “Clearly, something must suffer,” said Mr O’Dowd.
“In the fine print of the budget, there are things going on and the Minister is not being transparent and open about them here today.”
“The deputy is a very slow learner in these matters,” replied Mr Dempsey.
