Rail Network Expansion

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 April 2018

Tuesday, 17 April 2018

Ceisteanna (1284)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

1284. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the review of the feasibility of opening the second phase of the western rail corridor from Tuam to Claremorris will commence in view of the recent commitment in Project Ireland 2040 on this matter; the terms of reference of the review; the person or body will carry out the review; if public consultation will form part of the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15574/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

As the Deputy is aware, both the "Programme for a Partnership Government" and the recently-published "National Development Plan" commit to independent review of the costings for a proposal to extend the existing Western Rail Corridor.  My Department is currently at an advanced stage in developing an approach for progressing such a review in line with these commitments, and I expect to be in a position shortly to decide on the approach to be taken.  I am cognisant of the need for stakeholder consultation as part of the process, and can assure the Deputy that this will be an integral part of the review's arrangements.