Cross-Border Projects.

Tuesday, 9 March 2004

Questions (147)

Trevor Sargent

Question:

234 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had discussions with the British Government or with the Northern Ireland Office Minister at the Department for Regional Development, Mr John Speller, on the issue of prioritising investment in what is known as the non core railway infrastructure north of Ballymena and stretching to Derry; if he has conveyed any concern to Mr. Speller that the systematic under-investment is resulting once again in a marginalisation of the north west and compromising future opportunities for the restoration of a cross-Border western rail corridor that could stretch to Derry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7783/04]

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Written answers

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

I have not had any discussions with the British Government or with the Minister at the Department for Regional Development, Mr. Spellar, in particular, regarding investment in the railway infrastructure between Ballymena and Derry. The Department of Transport has ongoing and regular contact with the Department of Regional Development and the two Departments co-operate on projects to the benefit of both jurisdictions.

The Deputy will be aware that transport is one of the 12 priority areas for North-South co-operation, identified in the work programme of the North-South Ministerial Council. Several specific opportunities for co-operation have been identified by the council, including the further development of cross-Border rail services. Indeed, the development of cross-Border rail links, including the scope for improved services between Dublin and Derry, was discussed at the first meeting of the NSMC on Transport in December 2000.

Both Governments are currently working to bring about the restoration of devolved government to Northern Ireland. In this context I look forward to the further discussion of this issue within the North-South Ministerial Council.