Vol. 480 No. 2
90 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications whether she has examined the plans for the upgrading of the Maynooth-Dublin rail line; when work will begin on these proposals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14039/97]
91 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the current status of proposals for the upgrading of the Dublin-Kilcock rail line; when the proposed station at Kilcock will be operational; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14040/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 90 and 91 together.
Rail services between Kilcock/Maynooth and Dublin will benefit from an EU assisted investment package in the Dublin-Sligo line. This includes a major upgrading of track and signalling currently being undertaken with assistance from the Cohesion Fund. In addition an allocation of Structural Fund assistance under the Operational Programme for Transport 1994 to 1999 includes provision for new stations at Kilcock and Drumcondra. Iarnród Éireann has responsibility for implementing the individual elements of the package. I have no direct responsibility in the matter.
Plans for the upgrading of the Maynooth rail corridor are also being considered as part of ongoing discussions between my Department, CIE and the European Commission concerning the further development of Dublin suburban rail services. CIE is currently undertaking a detailed review of development needs in this area which will provide the basis for future decisions on investment priorities.
