A preliminary planning hearing into the proposed Dublin Metro was launched at Croke Park today.

According to the rail procurement authority, the multi-billion scheme could be put before the government by the end of the year, if it receives backing from the planning board.

Last week 600 boxes of documents containing the final plans for the project were submitted by four consortia.

The line would connect St Stephen's Green to north Fingal, through 17 stations.

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Information is now under the consideration of the Rail Procurement Agency, and will either be passed or rejected by An Bord Pleanála.

RPA has refused to put a price on the Metro - suggesting it would make a farce of its bidding process - but the contract is widely reported to be worth €5bn.

The RPA and Dublin local authorities have said the Metro is essential to ease transport congestion and maximise land use in the region.

They have also claimed cancelling or delaying the process now would damage Ireland's reputation.

Despite the project having the potential to create around 7,000 direct construction jobs, the state will have to find necessary funding and justify the investment during the ongoing economic downturn.

(PR/JM)