The man tasked with overseeing the delivery of Belfast's light rail system has been appointed.

Ciaran de Burca, an engineering expert, lauded for his work on Dublin's rapid transport network, will head up the Belfast-based project team.

In addition to working on Dublin's Luas system, the chartered engineer also project managed the city's Quality Bus Network scheme.

Stormont Transport Minister Conor Murphy welcomed Mr de Burca's appointment.

"Ciaran de Burca brings a wide range of valuable public transport experience to the Rapid Transit project," said Mr Murphy.

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"Under his leadership the new Rapid Transit delivery team will take forward the plans for a Rapid Transit system for Belfast.

"This project is our opportunity to create a new dynamic transportation system for the city, one that helps link people to jobs, hospitals, schools and colleges."

The eventual system will connect east Belfast to the west of the city. It will run through the city centre and be a key feature of the emerging Titanic Quarter. The scheme is estimated to cost around £150m.

Construction on the project is expected to begin in 2011, following the due planning and consultation process.

Mr de Burca said a key part of the network would be to reduce traffic congestion in the city.

Expressing his hopes for a world class system in Belfast, Mr de Burca said: "I believe this new transport system will deliver a step change in the quality of public transport in Belfast and together with other department initiatives, provide a sustainable transport option, which will encourage people out of their cars and into public transport thus helping to reduce congestion and emissions."

(PR/JM)