Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023
320. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport if will provide an update on the status of the EU tender that was placed by Iarnród Éireann in February 2022 for new railway freight wagons; the steps that have been taken to ensure that these wagons are acquired in a timely manner to support our export industries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38222/23]
View answer321. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport considering Iarnród Éireann's aging fleet of railway freight wagons, which have been in operation for over 45 years, and the outdated braking technology of the current railway freight wagons, which restricts their maximum operating speed and contributes to congestion on heavily used single track rail lines, the measures he is taking to modernise the freight wagon fleet; the current timelines for replacing the existing fleet and improve the efficiency of rail freight transport; if the Government is providing the necessary funding for the replacement of these wagons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38223/23]
View answer322. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport given the anticipated growth in rail freight demand from Mayo export industries, if he will commit to investing in a larger fleet of railway freight wagons, beyond a like-for-like replacement of the existing fleet, to cater for the latent demand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38224/23]
View answer323. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport the progress that has been made in constructing the new rail freight terminal in Castlebar, and the expected completion date; how this new terminal will help to alleviate the transportation challenges faced by local industries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38225/23]
View answer324. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport considering the potential impact on local industries in Castlebar and Mayo, and given the lengthy process of type testing and approval by the Rail Safety Authority for new freight wagons, the steps he is taking to expedite the acquisition and deployment of new, modern freight wagons for Iarnród Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38226/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 320 to 324, inclusive, together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport. The operation, maintenance and renewal of the rail network, including the replacement of rail freight wagons and other issues mentioned by the Deputy, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance.
In view of Iarnród Éireann's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
