Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 May 2000

Vol. 520 No. 1

Written Answers. - Rail Network.

Paul McGrath

Question:

118 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she will give a progress report on improvement works on the rail track between Dublin and Mullingar; when the double track from Maynooth to Dublin will be completed; if the travel time for trains travelling between Dub lin and Mullingar will be reduced, and if so, the amount of the reduction; and if she will ask Irish Rail to provide additional rolling stock on the Mullingar to Dublin route in view of the volume of people commuting daily. [15352/00]

Minister for Public Enterprise (Mrs. O'Rourke)

Íarnród Éireann has informed me that all the existing trackwork between Dublin and Mullingar has been renewed and now comprises of modern continuously welded rail trackwork. Work has also recently commenced on installing a second track between Maynooth and Clonsilla and this project will be completed by end 2000.

In relation to a reduction in travel times I understand from the company that time savings from Mullingar will vary with the stopping pattern of the trains. In relation to new services, these will commence in early 2001 and Iarnród Éireann have yet to agree final timetables.

While the allocation of rolling stock to specific services is a matter for the company I can inform the Deputy that additional diesel railcars are being ordered for further expansion of commuter services on all radial routes including Dublin-Mullingar. Twenty railcars are expected this year with a further 60 to be delivered by 2002.