Rail Network

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022

Thursday, 8 September 2022

Ceisteanna (188, 260)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

188. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport the procedure used to approve the development of the rail link from Foynes to Limerick; the details of the economic appraisal of this project; if and when it was published; the estimated cost of the project; the projected completion date; if the viability of the freight element of this project will be negatively impacted by the lack of a direct rail link along the west coast to Westport, Ballina and Sligo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42555/22]

Niall Collins

Ceist:

260. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport his plans to reopen and upgrade the railway line from Foynes to Limerick; if any proposal will include both freight and passenger options; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43468/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 188 and 260 together.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport.  The operation, maintenance and renewal of the rail network and disused lines on the network, including the redevelopment of a proposed rail link from Foynes Port to Limerick, be it for freight and/or passenger services, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance. 

In view of Iarnród Éireann's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply.  Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51