Vol. 530 No. 3
97 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the extent to which the refitting and refurbishing of the Dublin-Maynooth railway line has been completed; the full extent of the extended service now to be provided and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3957/01]
98 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise when the full upgraded service anticipated on the Maynooth-Dublin rail link will be operational; if the necessary rolling stock is available for this purpose and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3958/01]
100 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if her attention has been drawn to an industrial dispute which prevents the envisaged enhanced rail service on the Kilcock-Maynooth-Leixlip-Dublin rail route; if efforts are being made to bring about a resolution of this dispute and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3960/01]
103 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the total number of commuter trains available for use on the Kilcock-Maynooth-Leixlip-Dublin rail route; the likely number of daily passengers to be accommodated; the way in which this compares with the situation previously and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3963/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 97, 98, 100 and 103 together.
I have no statutory function in this matter which is a day-to-day function of Iarnród Éireann. The company informs me, however, that the commissioning of the additional rolling stock, track and signalling for the Maynooth to Dublin railway line is now virtually complete. Iarnród Éireann envisages that 20 new diesel railcars will operate on the Maynooth line. Two additional high capacity trains will be provided in the peak hour giving a 200% increase in passenger carrying capacity.
I am aware, however, of industrial relations difficulties regarding the extension of the suburban service on the Maynooth line. I understand from Iarnród Éireann that negotiations aimed at resolving these matters are currently in hand.
