Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:626. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to improve the rail network throughout the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42367/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 8 October 2013
Ceisteanna (626)
Freagraí scríofa
My Department and the National Transport Authority are working with Iarnród Éireann to increase the efficiency and attractiveness of existing rail services.
The Government continues to provide substantial Exchequer investment in the rail network despite the significant financial challenges. In the past two years a total of almost €385 million has been invested in Iarnród Éireann. Despite the reduced level of funding available, my Department has allocated over €135m towards the rail network this year. In addition to safety related works Iarnród Éireann is undertaking infrastructural works to improve journey times such as removing or upgrading level-crossings, providing automated ticketing machines, improving station facilities - all of which contribute to making the railway more competitive and attractive to passengers.
The overall investment in railway safety is in excess of €1.5 billion since 1999 when the Railway Safety Programme commenced. There has also been significant investment in rolling stock, on upgrading the Kildare route and opening new routes such as Cork Commuter route, Navan Phase 1and Phase 1 of the Western Rail Corridor.
The priority for our public transport network must be to aim for a better return from the existing public transport system, through targeted investment, better use of existing resources and by using smart technology to make public transport more responsive and user friendly. The limited funding available over and above this priority will only be provided for projects which are affordable, meet overall transport objectives and deliver the best return in terms of economic recovery and job creation. Moreover the ability to operate profitably and without the need for any subsidy would also be a key consideration for any new projects.
In addition to capital investment, Iarnród Éireann also received a total allocation of €127m in 2013 for Public Service Obligation (PSO) services. The Board of CIÉ are also pursuing a range of measures to address the financial position, including cost reductions across the three operating companies, so that the CIÉ’s rail and bus services can be provided efficiently and cost effectively over the Plan period.