I propose to take Questions Nos. 56 and 68 together.
As the Deputy may be aware, the Infrastructure Manager Multi Annual Contract (IMMAC) provides the funding framework for the protection and renewal of our railway network infrastructure, including maintenance works on closed and disused lines, such as the Western Rail Corridor.
A total of €250,000 has been allocated for vegetation removal along the Athenry to Collooney section of the Western Rail Corridor. This would be typical of vegetation management on disused lines as part of a care and maintenance regime and to assert possession of the route to prevent encroachment.
Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has advised there is full engagement with Iarnród Éireann in relation to bridges/crossings between national roads and the Rail network. Crossing of such lines and the works involved are ultimately subject to bridge agreements between the parties.
The All-Island Strategic Rail Review, which is being undertaken in co-operation with the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland, will inform the development of the railway sector on the Island of Ireland over the coming decades, to 2050, in line with net zero targets in both jurisdictions. The Review is considering the potential scope for improved rail services along various existing and potential future corridors of the network, and that scope includes the potential afforded by disused and closed lines such as the Western Rail Corridor.
Work on the Review is now at an advanced stage and a draft report was published for a Strategic Environmental Assessment public consultation in July. The Review recommends that reinstatement of the Western Rail Corridor from Athenry to Claremorris via Tuam be commenced by 2030. This is a significant project with the Review estimating it could cost between €400 million and €600 million, in 2021 prices.
The public consultation phase of the SEA process concluded on 29th September and submissions are now under review by officials from both jurisdictions. Following this process, it is expected that a final report will be submitted for Ministerial approval and ultimately the approval of the Government, as well as to the Minister for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland if in place.
In light of the above processes, it would be premature to commit to the reopening of the Western Rail Corridor before the Review is finalised and approved by Government.