Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 December 2021
187. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to a document prepared by Iarnród Éireann which states that Iarnród Éireann could return the Wexford-Waterford rail line for approximately €12 to €15 million; the plans that are in place for the use of the rail line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61315/21]
View answerI am not specifically aware of the document the Deputy refers to, however there are often a wide range of costs ascribed to re-openings of any disused railway line.
As the Deputy may be aware, my Department, in co-operation with the Department for Infrastructure (Northern Ireland), is undertaking a Strategic Rail Review which will inform the development of the railway sector on the Island of Ireland over the period to 2040. Arup consultants have been appointed and it is expected to take 12 months to complete.
The Strategic Rail Review will review the rail network with regard to a number of ambitions including the potential afforded by disused and closed lines such as the Waterford to Rosslare line.
This will be one of the most significant reviews of the rail network on the island in many years and will provide a framework to develop a much-improved rail network in the years ahead. As part of the scope of the Review, a consultation process is now underway and I would encourage all interested parties to participate.
