Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:116 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the position in regard to the safety standards on the Enfield to Dublin rail route; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4403/00]
Written Answers. - Public Transport.
Day-to-day responsibility for all matters relating to rail safety is a matter for Iarnród Éireann.
The company has informed me that the line from Enfield to Dublin is safe. In addition, substantial investments are being made by Iarnród Éireann to this line. The track has been steadily upgraded and by the end of this year it will be relayed throughout with continuously welded rail on concrete sleepers. Furthermore, the section of the line between Clonsilla and Maynooth is being doubled at present. I understand from the com pany that this work is planned for completion by end 2000 and will involve the resignalling of Clonsilla and Maynooth stations. Plans are also in place to renew the signalling system west of Maynooth to Sligo.
These ongoing investments will add to safety on this line.