The development of an integrated transport infrastructure is being provided for in the budget estimates, Minister for Transport Martin Cullen said today.
He said the 2007 allocation for the Department of Transport at €2.8 billion is an increase of 17 per cent or €415 million on funding for the department last year.
Capital projects will get €2.2 billion, an increase of 21 per cent, most of which is being given to projects under the Transport 21 plan.
Mr Cullen said: "This estimate allows for the continued high level of investment on the development of an integrated transport infrastructure as provided in Transport 21.
"It is clear evidence of the Government's commitment to the development of world-class transport services. Already, we can see our national road network being transformed as improved, safer roads make their way across the country.
"This further injection of funds allows us to move strongly forward with more delivery of projects in 2007," he said.
Completion of the new Docklands station and the building of the Portlaoise traincare depot will both be paid for in 2007.
The estimates also make provision for work on the Luas and Metro elements of Transport 21, including the start of construction on the Luas extension to Cherrywood and the Point Depot and for increased tram capacity on the Tallaght line.
There is no provision in the estimates for the purchase of the West-Link toll bridge.
The Government is also providing €9 million for the rural transport initiative and €10 million for the Road Safety Authority to tackle the waiting list for the driving test.
