Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 November 2005
64 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Transport the progress which has been made in relation to the commencement of construction work on the re-opening of the western rail corridor; the budget for this project as envisaged under the Transport 21 strategy; when this project will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36033/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing the launch of Transport 21, I have asked Iarnród Éireann to commence the design and planning stages of the western rail corridor from Ennis to Claremorris. The line will be developed on a phased basis, with Ennis to Athenry being completed in 2008, Athenry to Tuam in 2011 and Tuam to Claremorris in 2014.
Transport 21 includes a financial provision to cover the anticipated cost of the project. However, I do not propose to release this commercially sensitive information until the public procurement process for this project is completed.
65 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport when the appointment of an inspector to hold the public inquiry required under the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001 can be expected (details supplied). [36053/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraCIE submitted to me an application for a railway order for the Kildare route project on 5 October under the terms of the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001. I have directed that a public inquiry be held into the application and on 28 October I appointed Mr. Pat Butler SC as inspector to the inquiry. I understand that the inspector will begin the inquiry early in 2006 and that the findings will be submitted to me soon after its conclusion.
