Vol. 514 No. 3
112 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the average number of daily passengers using the Kilcock, Maynooth and Leixlip rail route; the absolute capacity of this route; the expected capacity when fully upgraded; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4399/00]
113 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the progress in regard to the upgrading of the rail line from Kilcock to Dublin, via Maynooth and Leixlip, in view of the moneys allocated by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4400/00]
119 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the anticipated passenger carrying capacity on the Enfield to Dublin rail route following the completion of upgrading currently in progress; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4406/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 112, 113 and 119 together.
The Maynooth line corridor currently has about 2,000 passengers daily in each direction.
Under the Operational Programme for Transport 1994-99, Iarnród Éireann is currently engaged in doubling the track between Clonsilla and Maynooth. This project, including associated signalling works, will be completed by the end of this year.
Currently two six car train services operate in the peak hour. This gives a capacity of 1,800. When this work has been completed it is planned to operate two additional services using eight car train sets between Maynooth and Dublin in the peak, giving additional capacity of 2,500. These additional railcars are on order and are due to be delivered before the end of this year. Following a period of commissioning the additional services will commence in early 2001.
Upgrading of track beyond Maynooth is almost completed. However, this will not result in increased levels of service.
Ove Arup & Partners are currently engaged by CIE in carrying out a strategic study on the longer term development of the suburban rail network in the greater Dublin area. I expect the report to be finalised shortly.
