Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 November 2022
142. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport if he requires the formation of the Northern Ireland Executive to sign off on the publication of the All-Ireland Strategic Rail Review, north and south; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57130/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Strategic Rail Review is being undertaken in co-operation with the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland. It will inform the development of the railway sector on the Island of Ireland over the coming decades.
The Strategic Rail Review is considering the future of the rail network with regard to the following ambitions: improving sustainable connectivity between the major cities (including the potential for higher/high-speed), enhancing regional accessibility, supporting balanced regional development and rail connectivity to our international gateways. This also includes the role of rail freight.
The Review is also considering the scope for improved rail services and infrastructure along the various existing, or potential future, corridors of the network including disused and closed lines.
The Government has previously stated its belief in the potential of rail. It is vital that we address constraints in the rail sector and deliver a strategy which allows rail to fulfil its potential as a sustainable mode of transport in pursuit of decarbonisation priorities, rural connectivity objectives and as a generator of prosperity for people across Ireland.
I look forward to a draft report from the Review being ready before the end of the year. Publication of the final report will follow after it has been considered and approved at Ministerial level on both sides of the border.
