Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 March 2020
1020. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if discussions have taken place within his Department on providing funding for a feasibility study of the railway line from Navan to Kingscourt; if not, if this will be considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2893/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFrom my replies to her previous questions on this matter, the Deputy will recall that the priority funding objective in relation to mainline rail is the maintenance and renewal of the existing operating network. This objective is supported by the significantly enhanced funding now available to support that network, as evidenced by the approximate 23% increase in Exchequer funding provided in 2019 and which has been further increased in 2020.
The Deputy will also recall from previous answers that no funding is provided within Project Ireland 2040 for the re-opening of the Kingscourt line nor are there any current plans to undertake a feasibility study on the line.
