Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 October 2020
87. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport if the initial studies as agreed in the NDP on the proposed railway line from Derry to Dublin have been commissioned; if he has spoken to the Department of Infrastructure in Northern Ireland in relation to any potential proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29301/20]
View answer89. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport his views on whether an all-island approach to future rail provision is essential; if he has engaged with the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland to discuss this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29305/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 87 and 89 together.
While I am not aware of any specific commitment in the National Development Plan in relation to a proposed railway line from Derry to Dublin, I can confirm to the Deputy that I have engaged with my colleague Minister Nichola Mallon, MLA, on a number of occasions in relation to rail infrastructure.
Indeed at this week’s Transport Sectorial meeting of the North South Ministerial Council, I agreed with Minister Mallon to develop further draft terms of reference for a proposed study of rail speeds along the Belfast-Dublin-Limerick Junction-Cork line, which was a commitment in the National Development Plan .
Our intention is to ensure that the scope of the study takes sufficient cognisance of the need for balanced regional development, particularly in relation to connectivity with the North-West.
Our Departments will work together with other relevant stakeholders in finalising the terms of reference now and moving forward with the procurement of consultants.
I look forward to the commencement of this important study in due course.
