Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 April 2024
176. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport if all new commuter and Intercity rail carriages that are coming into the fleet over the next few years will now automatically have a ramp covering the gap distance between carriage and platform at all the stations. [17800/24]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including, in consultation with Iarnród Éireann, the purchase of 41 additional intercity railcars and the DART+ Programme.
The delivery of 41 additional intercity railcars was completed in March 2023 and this fleet has recently begun to enter service on a phased basis. These new railcars will allow for enhanced services across the rail network as they are introduced into service this year.
Approval by Government in December 2021 permitted the purchase of 95 DART carriages from Alstom, to start entering into service by 2026. In November 2022, the Government approved a second purchase of fleet under the framework agreement with Alstom, which will see an additional 90 new battery-electric multiple units enter service from around 2026.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
