Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
191. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport if he intends to reopen the Rosslare to Limerick rail line in total and to provide frequent daily freight and passenger services on the line in view of the climate crisis and the rapid increase in freight and motoring costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42558/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport. The operation, maintenance and renewal of the rail network, including the Rosslare to Limerick line, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance.
As the Deputy may be aware, regional rail connectivity is one of the key issues for consideration as part of the ongoing All-Island Strategic Rail Review. The Review, which is being undertaken in co-operation with the Department for Infrastructure (Northern Ireland), will inform the development of rail on the Island of Ireland over the coming decades.
The Review is considering the potential scope for improved rail services along various existing and potential future corridors of the network, and that includes the potential afforded by disused and closed lines. The provision of rail services to the locations referred to by the Deputy is being considered in this context. The Review is also considering rail connectivity to our international gateways, with that considering the role of rail freight.
The final report from the Review is expected to be published by the end of this year.
