Alternative tunnelling site for MetroLink must be found- Rock

Tunnelling for a new rail service for the capital cannot take place where it is currently proposed, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Fine Gael Dublin North West TD Noel Rock was speaking today (Wednesday) at a special meeting of the Oireachtas Committee on Transport, Tourism and Sport to discuss the MetroLink proposal.

The meeting, organised by Deputy Rock, heard of the impact construction would have on local amenities.

“I was happy to have Na Fianna CLG, Home Farm FC, Scoil Mobhí, Scoil Chaitríona and Prospect Architectural Conservation Area come before the Oireachtas Committee at my request.

“It is clear now that the tunnelling simply cannot take place where proposed. The National Transport Authority (NTA) and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) are now on notice in this regard.

“We are all in favour of the MetroLink, but we must find an alternative tunnel site,” Deputy Rock said.

“Today’s meeting was constructive and served a purpose. In the Oireachtas we are often accused of being reactive rather than proactive. I am ensuring, by holding meetings like this, that we are changing that.

“I expect that a change will be announced soon after the conclusion of public consultation on May 11th,” Deputy Rock added.

ENDS