Vol. 525 No. 5
184 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if, further to a commitment given by her in May 1999, she will review the possibility of reopening Killucan railway station, County Westmeath; if a survey has been carried out to assess the feasibility of this project; if so, the outcome of this study; the likely cost of refurbishing the existing station; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25668/00]
Iarnród Éireann assessed the potential for new stations on all commuter lines in its recent suburban rail strategic review. Killucan was not identified as a potential location with sufficient population demand to justify a station at this stage. However, I have asked Iarnród Éireann to further review the situation in the light of expected new developments in the area.
185 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she has asked Iarnród Éireann to examine the possibility of reopening the Athlone/Moate/Mullingar railway line; the projected cost of bringing this line to an acceptable safety standard; her views on whether the reopening of this line would be beneficial to all the towns on this route; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25669/00]
As the Deputy is aware, investment of £500 million in the rail network under the national development plan is focusing on two key elements: £350 million to complete the implementation of the Railway Safety Programme 1999 to 2003, as approved by the Government in March 1999, which includes replacing jointed track on passenger lines with continuous welded rail, signalling improvements and renewal of bridges and fencing; and £150 million for a renewal-upgrading programme, including the purchase of new rolling stock and equipment and upgrading stations. The renewal-upgrading includes significant investment in upgrading the main intercity routes, including the Athlone-Westport and Athlone-Sligo lines.
Given the priority being afforded to investment in rail safety and mainline track renewal-upgrading programmes, there are no plans at present to re-open the Athlone-Moate-Mullingar railway line.
