🚆 Strategic Dialogue on Low-Carbon Mobility
On October 24, 2025, Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien met with European Investment Bank Vice President Ioannis Tsakiris in Malahide to explore expanded cooperation on climate-related and sustainable transport investment. The meeting underscored shared priorities, including renewable energy integration, public transport enhancement, and green mobility initiatives.
💬 Statements from the Meeting
Minister O’Brien emphasized the importance of the collaboration, stating:
“The MetroLink project will be a cornerstone of Ireland’s climate and mobility strategy, and we value the EIB’s technical expertise and long-standing partnership.”
Vice President Tsakiris affirmed the EIB’s commitment:
“We are examining technical and financing options for MetroLink and other rail investment that can strengthen sustainable growth, cut emissions, and improve mobility across the country.”
🏗️ MetroLink in Focus
The Dublin MetroLink, a long-anticipated high-capacity rail line connecting Swords to Charlemont, is central to Ireland’s National Development Plan and Climate Action Strategy. The EIB’s potential involvement could provide critical financial and advisory support to accelerate the project’s delivery.
🔍 Next Steps
- Technical discussions between the Department of Transport, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), and the EIB will continue in the coming weeks.
- A delegation from the Department is scheduled to visit the EIB headquarters in Luxembourg to assess financing structures and economic feasibility.
🌍 Broader Context
This engagement aligns with the EIB’s role as the EU’s climate bank, which has committed to supporting member states in achieving net-zero emissions through strategic infrastructure investment. For Ireland, the partnership represents a significant opportunity to modernize its transport network while meeting EU climate targets.
Sources:
- Department of Transport – Official Press Release gov.ie
- Travel Extra – MetroLink Financing Talks travelextra.ie
- FleetCar.ie – Future Transport Investment in Ireland FleetCar.ie
Minister-for-Transport-Darragh-OBrien-Picture-by-AirNav-Ireland
