Kathleen Funchion
Question:200. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Transport the details of the investments and service improvements that have been made on the Dublin-Waterford train line since 1 January 2020. [59014/22]
View answerTuesday, 29 November 2022
Questions (200)
Written answers
A number of new services or amendments to services on the Intercity network have recently been announced. These include changes on the Dublin-Waterford service from the 11 December this year, which includes a new return mid-morning service between Heuston Station and Carlow on weekdays and the addition of a stop at Kilkenny on the 07:00 service between Waterford and Dublin. The train will service Kilkenny at 07:28 and its departure from Waterford will be advanced ten minutes to 06:50, meaning the 09:00 arrival time at Heuston Station will remain unchanged.
It was not possible to incorporate further changes into the 2023 timetable at this time due to the availability of drivers and the need to defer driver training programmes as a result of COVID-19. However, Iarnród Éireann has advised that it will review the timetable as additional drivers become available and, in conjunction with the NTA, will continue to investigate possibilities for implementation of changes.
As the Deputy may be aware, the Infrastructure Manager Multi Annual Contract (IMMAC) provides the funding framework for the protection and renewal of our railway infrastructure, including the Dublin to Waterford rail line. This funding is used to increase service reliability and punctuality, improve journey times and help ensure continued safety of rail services.
Noting IÉ's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's questions to IÉ for a more detailed response on the specific issues raised. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51