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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 23 Jul 1969

Vol. 241 No. 8

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Replacement of Rail Tracks.

52.

asked the Minister for Transport and Power if the Government propose to assist CIE to replace existing broken rails with long-welded unbroken rail track.

CIE have included in their capital programme for the five year period ending 31st March, 1974, provision for the introduction of continuous welded rail on the Dublin/ Cork line. The total cost of the project, which would be spread over a period of seven years, is estimated at £3 million.

While the introduction of continuous welded rail instead of the existing jointed track would result in some saving in maintenance and fuel costs and would make the service more attractive, the estimated direct return on the investment would be highly unremunerative.

It is proposed to examine the project further with a view to quantifying the indirect benefits as far as possible but, in view of the present restrictions on the public capital programme, this project must, for the present, be regarded as having a low priority in the board's capital programme.

Is that for the Cork line or for the complete network?

Purely the Cork line. The money involved is quite substantial, £3 million. In the long run it is a matter we shall have to examine.

Social cost benefit amenity.

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