Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 November 2016
672. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to downgrade the train service in County Wexford, notably the line from Gorey to Rosslare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34454/16]
View answerAs I indicated at the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Transport, Tourism and Sport's meeting on 5 October, I have received a copy of the Rail Review conducted by the National Transport Authority and Irish Rail. It examines the funding parameters required to support our rail network now and in future. I have already stated that I would bring the report to Cabinet and then immediately arrange for its publication and the commencement of a public consultation process to be conducted by the National Transport Authority. I briefed my Cabinet colleagues this morning and I understand that the NTA intends to publish the Rail Review and launch the consultation process today.
While there has been much speculation regarding the future of individual rail lines, I want to stress that no decisions will be taken on any of the options identified in the Review in advance of the full process of public consultation. The public consultation will give the public and other interested parties the opportunity to see the analysis on rail funding and to contribute to all aspects of the debate on the future of rail.
