Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 11 Nov 2003

Vol. 574 No. 1

Written Answers. - Rail Network.

Kathleen Lynch

Ceist:

428 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Transport when he will make available the resources required to upgrade the suburban rail structure in the Cork region, including the improvements to Kent station as outlined in the Cork strategic plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26436/03]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan):

Iarnród Éireann's medium term rail investment programme is currently under discussion between my Department and Iarnród Éireann. The development of suburban rail proposals in the Cork region are included in this plan. On the basis of these discussions, I expect to receive shortly proposals with regard to proposed rail development in Cork.

As regards the proposed development of Kent station, Iarnród Éireann has informed me that they are in discussions with Cork City Council and a developer regarding a commercial development at Horgan's Quay, which would finance new customer facilities for Kent station. There are still a number of planning issues to be resolved, mainly with regard to the mix of development and the phasing of the project. CIE inform me that the cost and completion dates of the project have not yet been finalised.