My Department is currently overseeing a strategic review of the railways, the primary purpose of which is to provide the Government with a basis for establishing a strategic policy framework for the future development of the rail passenger and rail freight sector.
I understand that the consultants appointed to conduct the review advertised for submissions, consulted widely and held a number of meetings at regional centres. Furthermore, it is my understanding that submissions to the consultants at that time were made on behalf of the publication mentioned by the Deputy. The consultants are considering all submissions made to them.
Furthermore, I have received an e-mail communication, dated 5 December 2002, from this publication which has been passed to the consultants. I have also referred the communication to Iarnród Éireann for its consideration.