The first meeting of the Cabinet this year is underway with discussion on a €2.5 billion metro system for Dublin likely to be on the agenda.
The ambitious plan linking Dublin Airport and the City Centre could, if endorsed by ministers, be built by 2006.
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Ms Mary O'Rourke
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However, with the public purse stretched and National Development Plan road projects over budget and behind schedule, careful analysis is expected before the plan is given the green light.
The Minister for Public Enterprise, Ms O'Rourke, is expected to argue strongly for the acceptance of the plan.
A public-private partnership is thought to be the favoured means of building and operating the system.
Under the current proposals, the metro line would pass via Finglas, Cabra and Broadstone in north Dublin from the airport en route to the city centre. It would then go underground close to the Liffey before joining with the Luas system at Harcourt St.
On a separate matter, the Cabinet may also discuss the recent furore surrounding the arrangements put in place for Dublin West TD Mr Liam Lawlor on his return from New York on December 29th last.
Ms O’Rourke is expected to meet the chairman of Aer Rianta, Mr Noel Hanlon after the Cabinet meeting to discuss the future of one of the semi-State company’s directors, Mr Michael O’Leary.
Mr Hanlon identified Mr O’Leary as the person who initiated the arrangements which permitted the Lawlors to leave Dublin Airport through a special exit.
Ms O’Rourke indicated she will discuss the matter with the Tánaiste, Ms Harney when she returns from holiday on Friday. The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern and the Minister for Finance Mr McCreevy are also expected to be consulted.