I propose to take Questions Nos. 62, 84, 111, 131, 277 and 282 together.
As a central component of Transport 21, the Western Rail Corridor will be re-opened. In this context Iarnród Éireann has submitted to my Department detailed business proposals relating to Phase 1 (the reopening of the Ennis to Athenry section) and Phase 2 (re-opening of the Athenry to Tuam section). These proposals have been assessed by my Department and I will be reporting on them to Government in the very near future.
The question of whether to make an application for Structural Fund aid under the 2007 — 2013 round of EU Funding will be considered in the context of the new Structural Fund Regulations.
As part of the phased reopening of the Western Rail Corridor, Transport 21 provides for the reinstatement of the line between Ennis and Claremorris and the preservation of the remaining alignment as far as Collooney.
Subject to Railway order approvals the expected completion date of the Ennis to Athenry section is 2008 with work expected to commence this year while the Athenry to Tuam section is expected to be completed in 2011.