Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 June 2023
74. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport if he will meet with a campaign group (details supplied) to discuss development of the south-east rail network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30225/23]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the All-Island Strategic Rail Review is being undertaken in cooperation with the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland. It will inform the development of the railway sector on the Island of Ireland over the coming decades, including in the South East. Minister Ryan has previously met with representatives of the group to discuss their views on the development of rail in the south east.
The Review is considering the future of the rail network with regard to improving sustainable connectivity between the major cities (including the potential for higher/high-speed rail), enhancing regional accessibility, supporting balanced regional development, and rail connectivity to our international gateways. This also includes the role of rail freight.
The Review is considering the scope for improved rail services and infrastructure along the various existing, or potential future, corridors of the network, including disused and closed lines such as the Wexford to Waterford line.
Work on the Review is now at an advanced stage and it is expected that a draft will be published for the purposes of Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) public consultation in July. Following the SEA process and finalisation of the report, it is expected that it will be submitted for my approval and the approval of the Government , as well as to the Minister for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland. Should there continue to be an absence of Ministers in the NI Executive, approval will be considered taking into account the decision-making framework set out in the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc.) Act 2022 or relevant legislation in place at the time. .
It is expected that the final Review will be published in the autumn of 2023.
