The re-opening of the Athlone to Mullingar rail link was considered as part of the strategic rail review, carried out on behalf of the Department of Transport by Booz Allen Hamilton in 2003. The strategic rail review did not recommend inclusion of the line in the list of new rail schemes. On this basis, the project was not included in Transport 21.
Nevertheless, on 2 November 2005, I met a delegation from the Midland Railway Action Group accompanied by local representatives to discuss the re-opening of the Athlone to Mullingar railway line.
In my discussions with the action group, I emphasised the importance of their proposals being supported by coherent, complementary land-use strategies that provide a clear justification for the project. A working group was subsequently established by the action group, comprising representatives from the executive of Westmeath County Council, Iarnród Éireann and Athlone Institute of Technology. The group's report was received by my Department on 20 June last.
The report is now being considered by my Department in conjunction with Irish Rail in the context of Transport 21. When my Department's assessment is complete I will respond fully to the report submitted by the group.