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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 4 Jul 2001

Vol. 540 No. 2

Written Answers. - Rail Safety Programme.

Donal Carey

Question:

110 Mr. D. Carey asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if the Railway Safety Programme 1999-2003 includes provision for improvement works on the Ennis to Galway railway line; if so, if this includes works on bridges and arches; and if not, if she will request these matters to be considered. [20380/01]

The Railway Safety Programme 1999-2003 was agreed by Government in March 1999. It provides for an investment totalling £430.6 million over the five years of the programme, comprising £379.4 million for infrastructural safety works and £51.2 million for improvements to the safety management systems of Iarnród Éireann. The investment on infrastructural works includes £32.2 million for the renewal of some 110 bridges and the re-painting of 500 bridges across the network over the life of the programme.

The works that are being carried out under the safety programme are prioritised by Iarnród Éireann, based on the recommendations of independent consultations who carried out a review of railway safety in 1998 and on the company's engineering expertise and judgment.

In relation to the Ennis to Galway railway line, the safety programme includes provision for the upgrading or painting of some bridges, other ancillary works such as fencing and level crossings and, in relation to the section of this line from Athenry to Galway, the renewal of all of the track with the exception of some station track work.

In addition, I am advised by Iarnród Éireann that necessary normal maintenance on the Ennis to Galway line is carried out as required.

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