Vol. 528 No. 3
70 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise her proposals to upgrade the railway infrastructures between Connolly Station, Dublin 1 and Balbriggan, County Dublin including the need for a third rail line; if plans for this extension are being drawn up; if the necessary finance is available; and when work will commence and be completed. [30323/00]
Following a report commissioned by CIE –"Dublin Suburban Rail Strategic Review"– which was concluded earlier this year, a proposal for the upgrading of the northern suburban line to three tracks, from Connolly Station to north of Howth junction, has been incorporated in the Dublin Transportation Office's strategy 2000-2016 –"A Platform for Change". This strategy was launched by An Taoiseach on 2 October 2000.
I understand that Iarnród Éireann is currently undertaking a preliminary examination of the recommended third track between Connolly Station and Howth junction. The outcome of this examination, including funding considerations, is expected over the coming months.
Iarnród Éireann has contracted for the acquisition of 60 new diesel railcars, which are due to be delivered in late 2002. In the context of the northern line this will mean an increase in existing train lengths to eight carriages, which will result in a significant increase in capacity on the line. All existing station platforms on the line have been lengthened to accommodate the longer trains.
