Greens call for funding for shovel-ready DART projects

The DART+ project will transform the rail network in Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Wicklow and Louth by more than doubling the frequency of train services and passenger capacity. It will also enable much-needed new housing in the Greater Dublin Region. 

Speaking today, Cllr Feljin Jose, Spokesperson for Transport for the Green Party said: 

“With the announcement that the judicial review cases against DART+ West have been withdrawn, we now have two shovel-ready rail projects awaiting funding in DART+ West and South West. Iarnród Éireann has already begun the procurement process for the construction contracts which will allow enabling works to begin in early 2026 and for the main construction to begin later in 2026 but only if funding is made available by the government in the coming months.”

He continued: “It's crucial now that the government commits to funding the construction of DART+ as soon as possible. We need to see funding made available in the budget in October to allow for construction to begin early next year. The review of the National Development Plan is due to be published in the coming weeks and must also contain a clear commitment to deliver the DART+ project in full over the next five years.”

Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman, TD for Dublin West, said:

“DART+ will hugely benefit the areas I represent in Dublin West with frequent, modern, electrified train services running every five minutes at peak times. It will reduce congestion, promote public transport usage and also reduce noise and emissions along the line. Early engagement will be key to the project's success so I’d like to see Iarnród Éireann begin engagement with local residents along the line to minimise disruption during the construction.”