Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 July 2021
285. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if discussions have taken place within his Department or if any third party has made contact with his Department in respect of the possible reopening of the Dunleer train station to cater for mid-Louth commuters; the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41332/21]
View answer288. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if any discussions have taken place within his Department in respect of a much needed train station on the north of the Viaduct Bridge in Drogheda, County Louth; the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41411/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 285 and 288 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The maintenance, renewal and operation of the rail network and stations on the network including the proposed stations referred to, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance.
I am not aware of any discussions between Iarnród Éireann, or other third parties, and the Department on the matter the Deputy has queried.
In the coming weeks work will begin on an all-island Strategic Rail Review and that Review will consider all options in relation to the inter-urban and inter-regional network and issues such as those referred to by the Deputy could form part of that consideration. There will be a public engagement process as part of the Review and I would certainly encourage public representatives, and all other stakeholders, to put their views forward as part of this Review.
