This question is about planned investment in Irish Rail in the light of recent announcements on roads investment. I assume the Deputy is referring to the recent signing of a public private partnership road contract. This is the first transport PPP since 2007 and provides a significant confidence boost and evidence of continuing recovery in the economy. In implementing the Government's medium-term capital framework, my Department and agencies will continue to explore and maximise the use of external funding sources where possible.
There is, however, currently no proposal for any PPP in the public transport area although the matter is being kept under review. Unfortunately, due to the economic difficulties, the PPP processes for the DART underground heavy rail project and the metro north light rail project had to be cancelled. Both projects, which are very expensive and required very significant Exchequer contributions, will be reviewed again in advance of the next capital programme.
With the reduced capital funding available to my Department the priority for public transport is to ensure that existing investment is protected and safety standards are maintained. Beyond this, all available funding will be targeted to support affordable, best value projects which complement and leverage existing infrastructure and contribute to economic recovery. This is why funding has been allocated for the Luas cross-city project which will allow the creation of a Luas network.
Iarnród Éireann is still receiving significant Exchequer support for investment in infrastructure in 2013. A total of €137 million is being provided this year, including approximately €90 million towards the railway safety programme. The remainder is being spent on projects which improve journey times and provide better facilities for passengers such as the upgrading or elimination of level-crossings, automation of ticketing systems and improved passenger information systems, upgrading the city centre signalling system, accessibility improvements at Charleville station and the opening of Oranmore and Hansfied stations.