Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 20 Nov 2003

Vol. 575 No. 1

Written Answers. - Rail Services.

David Stanton

Question:

19 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Transport when the most recent discussions have taken place between his Department and Iarnród Éireann pertaining to the upgrading and development of rail services in Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27813/03]

David Stanton

Question:

37 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Transport when he expects to be in a position to make a decision to reopen the rail link to Midleton in east Cork; the projected cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27812/03]

Dan Boyle

Question:

39 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Transport when he expects to make a decision on the proposed expansion of the Cork suburban rail service as proposed in the Cork rail feasibility study. [27802/03]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

I propose to answer Questions Nos. 19, 37 and 39 together.

The Cork suburban rail proposals, as outlined in the Cork area strategic plan and which were the subject of a rail feasibility study, are under discussion between officials of my Department and Iarnród Éireann. The proposals form part of Iarnród Éireann's medium term rail investment programme, which was recently submitted to my Department. On the basis of these discussions I expect to soon receive more specific proposals from Iarnród Éireann with regard to the proposed rail development in Cork. In the meantime I understand from Irish Rail that a combination of timetable changes, which are due to be introduced on 14 December next, and the provision of additional new rolling stock will result in significantly improved service frequencies and capacities on the Mallow to Cork and Cobh to Cork routes.