Rail Network.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 May 2006

Tuesday, 16 May 2006

Questions (280)

Enda Kenny

Question:

335 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Transport the state of development of the section of line from Ennis to Claremorris in respect of the western rail corridor; the extent of moneys allocated towards the relaying of this section; when he expects this section to be open for passenger and freight traffic; the state of development of the section from Claremorris to Colooney and Sligo; the allocation for 2006; the numbers employed and the work to be carried out and completed in 2006; when he expects this section to be open for passenger and freight traffic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18527/06]

Written answers

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

Transport 21 provides for the re-opening of the Western Rail Corridor between Ennis and Claremorris on a phased basis and the preservation of the remaining alignment as far as Collooney. The current position regarding the Western Rail Corridor is that Iarnród Éireann has submitted proposals to my Department relating to Phase 1 (the reopening of the Ennis to Athenry section) and Phase 2 (re-opening of the Athenry to Tuam section). These are currently being examined in my Department. When this examination is completed I will make a decision on Iarnród Éireann's applications and the allocation of funding.