Paul Kehoe
Question:388. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport the timeline for the strategic rail review; when he expects the review to be finalised and published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19635/21]
View answerWednesday, 21 April 2021
Questions (388)
Written answers
As the Deputy is aware my Department, in consultation with the Department for Infrastructure (Northern Ireland) and other relevant stakeholders, is undertaking a strategic review of the heavy rail network on the island of Ireland. This review will consider all issues in relation to inter-urban and inter-regional rail connectivity, including the potential for high-/higher speed(s), rail freight and improved connectivity to the North West.
My Department launched the procurement process earlier this month and I expect work in the review itself will commence by the summer. While the ultimate duration of the review will be determined by the work programmes submitted by tenderers it is a requirement of the published request for tender that the work take no longer than 12 months in total. This will be one of the most significant reviews of the rail network on the island in many years and I look forward to its commencement and ultimate completion.