Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 7 Jun 2000

Vol. 520 No. 4

Written Answers. - Rail Network.

Denis Naughten

Question:

58 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the plans, if any, she has to re-open the Athlone to Mullingar rail line; the cost involved in upgrading this line; the current status of the line; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15768/00]

Minister for Public Enterprise (Mrs. O'Rourke):

The provision of rail services is a day-to-day matter for Iarnród Éireann.

I am informed that at present Iarnród Éireann has no plans to renew this section of rail line. The main priority will be the continuation of the rail way safety investment programme. Iarnród Éireann informs me that insufficient traffic demand exists at present to justify restoring the rail line between Athlone and Mullingar.