MetroLink work continues despite portents of doom – Farrell

Planning work on the MetroLink for Dublin continues despite the best efforts of those who claim it will not proceed, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Alan Farrell, who represents Dublin Fingal, said a narrative has emerged in recent months, that the MetroLink project has been postponed by Government.

“This flies in the face of the progress that has been made in recent time. The business case for MetroLink is being considered by the Department currently, and next year, Metro will move to a planning stage.

“Misrepresentation of the MetroLink project is irresponsible and damages public confidence in the progress that has been made and advancements already underway,” Deputy Farrell said.

“The latest claim that the Metro is delayed relates to a National Transport Authority (NTA) report, which does not backup the claims of a ten-year delay.

“The Government recognises the severity of the climate crisis and that’s why projects like MetroLink have received full Government support and it is the intention of Government to see construction start in the lifetime of this administration.

“Unfortunately, it is all too easy to grab easy headlines with portents of doom, however the fact remains that MetroLink has been making progress under this Government.

“The people of North Dublin are best served when the facts of the matter are told to them straight. We all have a duty to fulfil this promise.

“Fine Gael remains wholly committed to the development and delivery of Metro Link and the Programme for Government commits to the delivery of Metro Link.

“Proper design takes time and expense and the use of public finances for such demands that every due care is taken with this,” Deputy Farrell said.