Mr. Tom Tiernan:

Previously, the county manager and I facilitated that meeting in 2014. At the time there appeared to have been an impasse that needed to be overcome. We felt that it was overcome by virtue of the fact that Iarnród Éireann took on the report that had been prepared by RPS Group in 2011. Iarnród Éireann ran with it and reviewed it based on comments and observations that had been made on the report, in particular by the OPW. The points were taken on board and the revamped report emerged in August 2015 with the recommendation in favour of the raising of the railway line, as distinct from a drainage solution, which had been proposed in the previous report. I can understand why it was not the most palatable solution in the world, due to the cost-benefit ratio when it was isolated from everything else, and because of all the various points that the members have made. It is understandable when the cost-benefit ratio of 0.4 or thereabouts. A little persuasion or cajoling is needed in those circumstances. Clare County Council will not be found wanting in terms of whatever way that can be facilitated. The chief executive officer is not present but I am sure I can speak on his behalf with regard to a willingness to re-engage and to up the ante to move this issue forward. Mr. Leahy and I will give a commitment to try to reinitiate that approach.