Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 February 2023
191. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the timeline for beginning the project of automating the remaining gate keeper crossings on the Limerick-Nenagh-Ballybrophy railway line; if the overall running costs of the line will be reduced when these crossings are automated; if he expects new services to be introduced following this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9461/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport, including rail. The operation, maintenance and renewal of the rail network, including level crossings, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance.
As the Deputy may be aware, the Infrastructure Manager Multi Annual Contract (IMMAC) provides the funding framework for the protection and renewal of our railway infrastructure, including the Ballybrophy to Limerick rail line.
This is the fourth year of the five-year IMMAC programme, as approved by Government in 2020, and over the five years of the programme in excess of €1.3billion in Exchequer funding will be made available under the current contract. This funding will increase service reliability and punctuality, improve journey times and ensure continued safety of rail services. Usage of level crossings is reviewed on an annual basis through an on-going programme of inspections.
The Deputy may wish to note that in 2022 additional funding of €6.4 million was allocated to Iarnród Éireann for the renewal of 9.5 miles of track on the line, which will saw the full length of the Ballybrophy line upgraded to continuous welded rail, bringing journey time improvements for passengers.
Noting Iarnród Éireann's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to IÉ for a direct reply on the specific matter raised. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
