Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 March 2013
265. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of additional DART commuter and intercity railcars that were brought into operation for the years 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012; if EU funding was provided in any of these years to cover the costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11820/13]
View answerThe purchase of new Intercity Railcars (ICR's) commenced in 2004, with options to acquire additional rolling stock being exercised at intervals since then. A total of 234 ICR's were delivered. EU co-funding of €11 million was provided towards 22 ICR's serving the BMW Region. No new DART railcars have been funded since 2007. Operational issues in relation to rolling-stock, such as when the ICR's were introduced into service, are a matter for Iarnrod Eireann. I have referred the Deputy's question to the Chief Executive of Iarnrod Eireann for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
