MetroLink could cost as much as €17.5 billion to deliver under a new estimate being brought to Cabinet by Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien.
The midpoint of the latest projected cost is €15.75 billion, with the lower estimate standing at €14.4 billion.
That represents a significant increase on the previous estimate of €9.5 billion, which was based on a range of €7.16 billion to €12.25 billion when the planning application was submitted in 2022.
Construction inflation is understood to have added around €1 billion to the projected cost, while changes to the design account for a further €1.2 billion.
Cabinet is being asked to approve the next stage of the project, allowing MetroLink to move into detailed procurement and the tendering process.
The planned 19km route will run from Swords through Dublin Airport and the city centre to Charlemont near Ranelagh, with most of the line underground.
If approved, construction could begin next year, with the service expected to open in the mid-to-late 2030s. A final decision on whether to proceed will be made after tenders are received.
MetroLink has been in development for more than 25 years and has faced delays, legal challenges and rising costs. It was recently designated as one of nine projects of critical national importance, giving it priority for faster processing.
The new business case is expected to estimate that every €1 invested in MetroLink will return between €1.13 and €1.78 when direct benefits are considered. Including wider economic impacts, the return is estimated at between €1.26 and €1.95.
Cabinet will also consider legislation aimed at reducing the backlog in Assessment of Need reports for disabled people, which are intended to be completed within six months.
Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers will brief ministers on the spending strategy for Budget 2027, while Communications Minister Patrick O’Donovan will outline plans to re-establish a taskforce focused on mobile and broadband black spots.
Government Chief Whip Mary Butler will update Cabinet on the autumn legislative programme, covering areas including housing, health, infrastructure, climate, justice and public services.
Other items on the agenda include the annual report of Research Ireland, a new National Bioeconomy Strategy to 2030, and Ireland’s engagement with the OECD.
Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntee will also brief Cabinet on plans to proceed with abolishing the Triple Lock, following a Sinn Féin private members’ bill on the issue.
