The National Transport Authority (NTA) must explain how the construction of 14 steps and a ramp in a south Dublin park ended up costing more than €500,000 above the original estimate, according to Social Democrats TD Aidan Farrelly.
Deputy Farrelly, who sits on the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), said:
“While the eventual bill of €750,000 for the Deer Park project in Mount Merrion was already in the public domain, it has now come to light through a Freedom of Information request that this scheme was originally estimated to cost €200,000. It is incomprehensible that the steps and ramp should end up costing almost four times more than that figure.
“Even though the project was developed by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, active travel funding was provided by the NTA.
“The NTA must now explain why costs ballooned by half a million euro during the construction phase of this scheme.
“Were other alternatives considered – including a ‘do nothing’ option or a redesign of existing entrances to the park – and were consultants engaged to advise on this? Was a value for money report provided?
“Was there any oversight of this project and who signed off on such a huge increase on the initial estimate?
“As taxpayers’ money is involved here, I have asked the NTA to provide PAC with all internal correspondence with the local authority relating to this project.”
January 15, 2026