Billy Timmins
Ceist:142 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the plans, if any, she has to upgrade the Rosslare to Dublin railway line; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18182/98]
Written Answers - Rail Network.
In the first instance, the decision on upgrading any particular rail line is a day-to-day matter for Córas Iompair Éireann and Iarnród Éireann and one in which I have no direct responsibility. However, in the context of developing proposals for inclusion in Ireland's application for Post-1999 EU funding, CIE has submitted to my Department a number of studies related to its bus and rail transport investment needs, including a review of mainline rail requirements. The mainline line rail review includes investment proposals for the upgrading of the Arklow to Rosslare line.
These submissions are currently being considered by my Department, in conjunction with the Department of Finance which has the lead role in the preparation of the overall application. That Department will also engage in a consultative process with the regional authorities and the social partners before finalising Ireland's application to the European Commission.