I propose to take Questions Nos. 273 to 275, inclusive, together.
As the Deputy may be aware,
the Cork Commuter Rail Programme, which the National Transport Authority will implement in consultation with Iarnród Éireann,
targets a 10-minute all-day frequency on electrified rail services running from Mallow to Midleton and Cobh. Phase 1 of the programme
will be part-funded through the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience Facility and is scheduled for completion by 2026. Funding of €164 million is allocated to Phase 1 of the programme through the National Recovery & Resilience Plan (NRRP), as agreed by the EU Commission.
In line with the development of adjacent areas and wider improvements on the rail network, a number of new stations are planned as part of the overall Cork Commuter Rail Programme, taking in both Phase 1 to the end of 2026 and Phase 2 thereafter. As the Deputy may also be aware, under the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS), the National Transport Authority have proposed a number of new rail stations in the Cork area.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in both CMATS and the delivery of the Cork Commuter Rail Programme (in co-operation with Iarnród Éireann), I have referred the Deputy's questions to it for a more detailed reply on the specific matters raised. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.