Maurice Quinlivan
Question:18. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Transport his plans to deliver a train station in Moyross, Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62415/21]
View answerThursday, 16 December 2021
Questions (18, 35)
Violet-Anne Wynne
Question:35. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Transport the status of the proposed capital project on a rail line between Limerick city and Shannon Airport; the projected and total cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62413/21]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 35 together.
As stated in the National Development Plan these issues are being considered in the context of the Limerick-Shannon Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (LSMATS).
As the Deputies may be aware, that Strategy is being developed by the National Transport Authority (NTA) in collaboration with Limerick City and County Council, Clare County Council and Transport Infrastructure Ireland. A draft Strategy was published in September 2020 and was open for public consultation for 8 weeks.
Since the conclusion of last year’s public consultation exercise, the NTA has conducted further analytical work to inform the next iteration of the Strategy. I understand that among the issues raised during the public consultation were issues related to the role of rail in the region, including potential connectivity to Shannon Airport and additional stations such as Moyross, and that role is under further examination by the NTA for inclusion in a revised draft Strategy.
I understand that the NTA intends to undertake a second round of public consultation on a revised draft strategy early next year. Following receipt of feedback from the second round of public consultation, it is intended to finalise the Strategy and publish it as the completed transport investment framework for the metropolitan area.
When finalised, the Strategy will set out the framework for investment in transport for the Limerick-Shannon Metropolitan Area for the next 20 years including proposals for rail investment. Importantly the Strategy will be integrated within relevant land-use plans and that integration is crucial if we are to enable the emergence of a more sustainable Limerick. A Limerick that provides better access for citizens to work, education and leisure opportunities through improved active travel, bus and rail infrastructure.
Minister Ryan and I look forward to working with the Deputies as we look to improve the transport network in the Limerick area in the years ahead.