Vol. 554 No. 5
1256 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport his plans to provide additional rolling stock, including carriages, on the mainline rail network; the type of new carriages to be provided; when they were ordered; the numbers and costs involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16673/02]
1257 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport if he has had discussions with the executives of CIE and Iarnród Éireann to discuss the upgrading of locomotives and rolling stock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16674/02]
1291 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the additional carrying capacity he intends to provide on intercity mainline routes under the national development plan; the timescale involved; the projected costing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16708/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 1256, 1257 and 1291 together.
I understand that CIE will be submitting to me in the coming days proposals to acquire new rail carriages for mainline rail services.
I am awaiting its formal proposals in that regard which will indicate, inter alia, the number and type of carriages it intends to acquire and their cost. I hope to be in a position to convey my decision in relation to the proposals shortly thereafter.
In addition, early next month, Iarnród Éireann will take delivery of the first batch of 80 new diesel rail cars for use on commuter services. Iarnród Éireann has also placed an order for 16 new DART cars with my Department's approval. I am expecting shortly further proposals from the board which would involve the acquisition of a further 24 DART cars to expand the DART network. I expect to convey my decision in that regard shortly thereafter.
