Rail Network.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 November 2004

Tuesday, 2 November 2004

Questions (51, 52, 53)

Dan Boyle

Question:

122 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Transport if an analysis has been carried out within his Department on the possible introduction of on-street light rail services in Cork city. [26891/04]

David Stanton

Question:

195 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Transport the progress which has been made in relation to reopening the rail link to Midleton in east Cork; the amount of money that has been made available; the timescale involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26759/04]

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

196 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport his views on the continuance of the Cork to Midleton line into the city centre in view of the recent announcement of its reopening; if funding will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27028/04]

Written answers

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 122, 195 and 196 together.

In May of this year, the Government agreed to the development of a commuter rail service for Cork between Mallow and Midleton. This involves the relaying of track and signalling between Glounthaune and Midleton as well as the construction of a number of new stations along the length of the route.

Iarnród Éireann is currently undertaking an engineering feasibility study of the proposed Cork to Midleton section of the line. On completion of the study, Iarnród Éireann will be in a position to provide a more detailed projection of the costs involved. Funding for the project will be provided by the Exchequer, the EU and by special contributions schemes established by the local authorities in Cork.

A steering group, chaired by my Department, with representatives from Iarnród Éireann and Cork City and County Councils has been established to monitor the progress on the rail project and the concurrent residential and commercial development along the line. While there are no proposals in the Cork Area Strategic Plan 2020 to extend the line beyond Kent Station and provide an on-street light rail service, a bus service will integrate with rail services to bring commuters to the city centre.