Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022
210. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to a report (details supplied); the estimated cost to return the rail line to the standard required for passenger use; his views on the benefit of rail connectivity being maintained between Dublin to Rosslare to Waterford to Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63301/21]
View answerI am not specifically aware of the document the Deputy refers to, however I understand there are often a wide range of costs associated with re-opening any disused railway line.
As the Deputy is aware, I do believe our rail network requires a broad strategic review to better understand its role and assess its future potential. A review is underway to consider whether opportunities exist to better utilise currently underused lines, or closed lines such as the Rosslare to Waterford line.
The Strategic Rail Review is being led by my Department, in co-operation with the Department for Infrastructure (Northern Ireland). It will inform the development of inter-urban and inter-regional rail on the Island of Ireland over the coming decades.
This will be one of the most significant reviews of the rail network on the island in many years. A public consultation is underway, open until 21st January. I would encourage all interested parties to participate. For the Deputy's information, I expect a final report from the Review to be available by Q4 2022.
