Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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61. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the reopening of the Wexford to Waterford rail line is to be considered as part of the Strategic Rail Review now underway; his views pending the outcome of this strategic review of the decision of Irish Rail to secure the Barrow Bridge in a permanently open position; his views on whether this action has implications for any future use of the bridge for rail or as part of a potential greenway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32168/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As the Deputy is aware, a Strategic Rail Reviewwill commence shortly and the procurement process is well underway in relation to that Review. This Reviewwill examine the rail network on the island of Ireland in relation to improving sustainable connectivity between the major cities, enhancing regional accessibility, supporting balanced regional development and rail connectivity to our international gateways, with the latter also considering the role of rail freight.

The Reviewwill also consider the potential scope for improved rail services along the various existing, or future potential, corridors of the network and that scope will certainly include the potential afforded by disused and closed lines such as the Wexford to Waterford line.

With regard to the Barrow Bridge, I can inform the Deputy that I am aware of the matter raised and indeed discussed the issue previously in the House in relation to this line generally.

As previously stated, it is the case the line has been closed to scheduled services for almost 11 years now. The National Transport Authority and Iarnód Éireann have agreed that, reflecting that fact, the bridge should be left in the ‘open’ position for marine traffic as trade continues of course in the port of New Ross. I am informed that the planned securing of the bridge in the open position in no way removes the future functionality of the bridge for carrying rail traffic should services on this line resume, nor, I would stress, does it in any way impede consideration of the line in the context of the Strategic Rail Review. I understand that Iarnód Éireann will ensure the continued functionality of the bridge through scheduled movements which will allay potential concerns that may exist as regards the permanency of the changed position.

I look forward to the Strategic Rail Reviewand its consideration of the strategic potential of the rail network on the island of Ireland, including the Wexford to Waterford line.