To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 29233/17-22, what efforts are being made to ensure the timescales for Belfast Rapid Transit Phase 2 align with City Deal funding requirements.

As outlined in my response to AQW 2933/17-22, work is progressing on the development of a Public Consultation Report and Outline Business Case, both of which are required to help inform the decision on a preferred route and progress the Belfast Rapid Transit Phase 2 (BRT2) project.

With regards to the alignment of BRT2 with Belfast Region City Deal (BRCD) funding, the £35m partial funding allocated by BRCD partners is insufficient to deliver the project. I remain committed to doing all that I can to deliver this priority project, and will work with BRCD partners and my ministerial colleagues in a bid to address the significant funding shortfall.