Emmet Stagg
Question:788 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport when improvements (details supplied) to the Arrow route service, County Kildare will occur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1770/03]
Written Answers. - Rail Network.
I am not in favour of closing rail lines. In this context, my Department has engaged consultants to undertake a strategic rail review of the Irish railways 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 in Ireland. The review will provide a framework for future rail development in Ireland over the next 20 years having regard to the spatial planning context provided by the various land use and transportation studies undertaken around the country; the extensive public transport investment programme under the national development plan; relevant findings and conclusions of "Iarnród Éireann: The Way Forward"; and the desirability of rail freight services to include consideration of existing freight capacity and its potential for development.
The Limerick Junction to Rosslare line was examined by the consultants in carrying out their review. I expect the strategic rail review to be published shortly and to set out proposals for the future development of this line over the next 20 years.