Rail Services.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 December 2007

Thursday, 6 December 2007

Ceisteanna (126)

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

118 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport his proposals for the development of the rail transport system with particular reference to the need to provide an available, acceptable and attractive alternative for commuters; his plans to accelerate the programme to put in place a complementary parking and bus feeder service with a view to increasing rail use by daily commuters in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33161/07]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

The major capital investment of over €1,787m in the railway network since 2000 has funded major improvements throughout the network. As a consequence, a total of 43m passengers travelled by rail in 2006 — an increase of 36% on 2000. The capacity and frequency of services will be further improved as major Transport 21 projects are completed including the Kildare route upgrade project, improved services along the Maynooth line and the bringing into service of new rolling stock. The provision of car parking at, and feeder bus services to, railway stations is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in conjunction with local authorities and bus operators.

Question Nos. 119 to 121, inclusive, answered with Question No. 116.