asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will consider introducing rail-passenger and freight transport in the south-west side of Dublin city in view of the ideal proximity of the rail system to the vast industrial estates and housing schemes in this area and especially in view of the problem of the congestion of the centre city area with heavy duty trucks, etc.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin City Rail Services.
26.
The determination of the need for new rail services is, under statute, the responsibility of CIE. CIE are fully conscious of the need to ensure that rail services in the Dublin area are utilised as effectively as possible with a view to making the maximum contribution to the relief of road congestion in Dublin city.
I am informed by CIE that surveys were carried out by the board last year to determine the feasibility of extending commuter services to the Ballyfermot area and also the potential for commuter services on the main railway line between Dublin and Naas but it was found that, because of the low potential demand, extension of commuter services would not be warranted. CIE have recently engaged consultants, however, to study the suburban railways in the Dublin area with a view to determining their existing capacity and the future capacity for different levels of investment. I am informed by the board that the practicability of rail commuter services for the south western area of Dublin will be covered in the consultants' examination.
With regard to freight transport, CIE have informed me that the provision of railway sidings to the industrial estates in the area is not a feasible proposition.