asked the Minister for Transport and Power if it is the intention of CIE to close the railway line between Kingscourt, County Cavan and Clonsilla, County Dublin; and, if so, whether immediate reconsideration will be given to this matter in view of the fact that this line is used greatly for the transport of raw gypsum to Cement Limited at Drogheda and Limerick, and that some of the present roads would not be capable of carrying the additional traffic which approximates to 1,000 tons per week.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closing of CIE Rail Line.
42.
I am informed by CIE that no decision to close the Kingscourt-Clonsilla branch rail line has been taken. This line is one of a number of uneconomic branch lines in respect of which the Board is examing whether there would be a financial betterment if road services were substitued for rail. In its further examination of the matter, the Board will take all relevant factors into account including the needs of industry in the area served by this branch line.
The Board is prepared, before reaching a decision as to the future of the line, to consider fully any representations which interested parties may make to them.