I propose to take Questions Nos. 1040 and 1068 together.
The taxpayer makes a very large and recurring contribution each year to Iarnród Éireann. This contribution takes the form of both current, PSO funding and also capital funding under what is known as the IMMAC (infrastructure management multi-annual contract). In 2017 funding under both the PSO and IMMAC programmes has cumulatively increased by over 17% when compared with 2016, bringing total funding to over €300 million.
The Government's recently announced Budget 2018 provides for an increase in the multi-annual capital investment for public transport with a four-year capital envelope of €2.7 billion over the period 2018-2021 including an investment of over €400 million next year. This represents a 30% increase over the original Capital Plan allocations for 2018-2021 and includes increased funding for the heavy rail network. In Budget 2018 I also secured an 8% increase in the overall Exchequer funding available for PSO services throughout the country.
As the Deputy is aware, Iarnród Éireann is responsible for assessing rolling stock requirements for the heavy rail network in conjunction with the National Transport Authority. Noting the responsibility of the agencies in this regard, I have referred the Deputy's question to Iarnród Éireann for direct reply on the specific issues raised. Please advise my office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
The deferred reply under Standing Order 42A was forwarded to the Deputies.
