Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 July 2017
1418. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if, in line with the vision for the long-term electrification of rail services and Government policy on reducing urban air pollution, all procurement of new diesel-powered rail rolling stock will be hybrid, that is, capable of electric operation in circumstances in which the rail is electrified. [36671/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraRail plays an important role in meeting increased passenger demand and also providing an energy-efficient mode of transport. Electrified rail use, in particular, is capable of achieving low emissions through utilising renewable sources of energy. Considerable progress has been achieved in increasing capacity on the light and heavy rail networks. For instance, the Luas Cross City project is scheduled for completion before the end of the year and it is estimated that the new line will add an extra 8 to 10 million journeys per annum on the Luas network. Also, in 2017 we will see an increase in Dart frequency and additional commuter services through the newly-opened Phoenix Park Tunnel.
Rail operators are also playing an active role in emission reductions on existing services, introducing a range of technical measures including automatic engine shutdown, configuring train length to match passenger demand and installing traction control software.
Furthermore, I am committed to the further development of electric fuelled public transport, particularly along high demand routes in the GDA where capacity requirements make such investment cost-effective. We are progressing plans on the New Metro North project which is due to commence construction in 2021; Almost €70 million has been allocated to the DART Expansion Programme between 2019 and 2022 to begin the extension of the DART line to Balbriggan, and the design and planning of DART services to Maynooth in the west and Hazelhatch in the south west.
Iarnród Éireann operates the heavy rail network and is responsible for assessing rolling stock requirements for the heavy rail network in conjunction with the NTA.
Noting the responsibilities of the agencies in this regard, I have referred the Deputy's question to both NTA and Iarnród Éireann for direct reply. Please advise my office if you have not received a reply within 10 working days.
The referred reply under Standing Order 42A was forwarded to the Deputy.
