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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 Mar 1969

Vol. 238 No. 15

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Rail Links.

10.

asked the Minister for Transport and Power if CIE have any plans for introducing new rail links in and around Dublin.

CIE have not at present any plans for introducing new rail links in and around Dublin.

As I stated in reply to previous questions on 24th October, 1968, and 13th November, 1968, CIE are concerned to ensure that the suburban rail services are utilised as effectively as possible with a view to making the maximum contribution to the relief of road congestion in Dublin city. The need for additional passenger rail facilities in the Dublin area is reviewed periodically by CIE and additional services are provided as necessary to meet demand. Since last September seven new trains have been introduced on the Dublin suburban services, including trains linking the northern and south-eastern lines, and improved train connections between the north and south of the city will be ready by next summer. A new station will be opened on the northern line at Kilbarrack later this year.

CIE have recently commissioned a survey by an independent market research company to determine the feasibility of extending commuter services to the Clondalkin, Ballyfermot, Cabra, Glasnevin and Drumcondra areas, which could be served from the existing railway network. A survey is also being carried out of the potential for computer services on the main railway line between Dublin and Naas, Newbridge and Kildare.

When does the Minister think the results of this survey will be made available to CIE?

I could not say. In any plan of this kind CIE will have to have reports from Dublin Corporation as to how this development will fit in with the general growth of housing in the area. For example, in the Malahide/ Coolock area there is a plan for the development of housing and that development might, under certain circumstances, lead to the opening of stations, or it might not, according to the development of the plan and, therefore, the CIE plan has to work in with that of Dublin Corporation.

Would the Minister agree that the purpose of this survey is to ascertain if there is a need for these new railways?

Oh, yes. I am thoroughly in agreement with that.

They will be included in the long-term plans if the survey indicates there is a need for them?

It is quite impossible for me to say what the examination of the proposals may lead to because there is the question of comparative cost as between wide roads and railways. It is a complicated matter and no one can give an easy answer to it.

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