Vol. 561 No. 1
444 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Transport if Iarnród Éireann is trying to close down the State's rail freight network; his views on the reality that this will lead to more road traffic chaos; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3215/03]
I am not in favour of closing rail lines. In this context, my Department has engaged consultants to undertake a strategic 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 the publication, Iarnród Éireann – The Way Forward; and the desirability of rail freight services, to include consideration of existing freight capacity and its potential for development.
I am of the view that an effective rail freight system is important to sustained national economic development. I have already conveyed my views to the chairman of CIE that no decisions should be taken on the withdrawal of freight services until the review has been published. The board of CIE at its meeting of 6 November 2002 agreed to postpone any decisions in this regard. I expect to publish the strategic rail review shortly.
