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Rail Network

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 February 2018

Tuesday, 27 February 2018

Questions (639)

James Browne

Question:

639. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when an application will be made to the European Union to revise the TEN-T core network, with particular reference to seeking core status for the Dublin to Rosslare Europort line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9825/18]

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Written answers

The TEN-T Core Network is a subset of the Comprehensive Network, representing the strategically most important nodes and links of the trans-European transport networks. The Dublin - Rosslare Europort rail line is on the TEN-T comprehensive network and does not form part of the TEN-T Core Network.

Under the Programme for Partnership Government, the Government committed to applying to the European Union for the revision of the TEN-T Core Network. A submission is being prepared for the European Commission for a revision of the TEN-T Core Network, which would seek to facilitate consideration of transport-related project proposals for funding under the Connecting Europe Facility. The submission will also take into account the implications of Brexit on Ireland's future connectivity and will take account of the recently published National Development Plan.  

My officials met the European Commissioner for Transport, Ms Violeta Bulc, and her officials in October 2017 in relation to transport issues, including the potential impacts of Brexit on Ireland’s connectivity and increased geographical isolation in the EU. In that context, my officials informed the Commissioner that a submission will be forthcoming. My officials also separately met with the Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE) in November of last year and briefed DG MOVE on the Government’s commitment and on the pending submission. However, the Dublin to Rosslare Europort rail line did not form part of those discussions. DG MOVE advised that the submission would be considered on receipt but indicated that it may not meet the criteria for the Core Network. However, it noted that under the Regulation, a review of the implementation of the Core Network will take place by end 2023.

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