Rail Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 February 2018

Thursday, 22 February 2018

Questions (182)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

182. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to commence the independent review of the western rail corridor as promised in the programme for Government and in the national development plan 2018 to 2027 as part of the Atlantic economic corridor; if the development of commuter rail from County Mayo and Tuam to Galway city will form part of the review in addition to intercity services and freight connections; if the terms of reference of the review will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9114/18]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

The Programme for a Partnership Government includes a commitment to provide for an independent costing and review of the Western Rail Corridor Phase II between Athenry and Claremorris for passenger and freight use.  The National Development Plan, which was published last week with the National Planning Framework, restates this commitment. 

As the Deputy is aware, the Programme for a Partnership Government also commits that no measures will be taken to prevent the future reactivation of the corridor for rail use. Arrangements for the proposed independent review of WRC are currently being considered by my Department.