Mr. Jim Meade:

It could be done. A light rail system would be less expensive, but I do not have a feel for the scale of such a project. I am, however, happy to take the idea back and discuss it with the Department. That type of study is not included in the current national development plan.

On the second question, we have not moved any further in identifying a location for a passing loop between Ennis and Limerick. It would be located on either side of or in Sixmilebridge. It is part of a long-term plan, but we have not advanced it since we last spoke about it.

When one arrives in Limerick, it is a three or four minute walk to the city centre. A three phase transportation hub plan was put in place for the site. Phase one included the front of the station, which is now the plaza. It has turned out very well. However, the bus station is not big enough. As part of the plan, a new bus station was to be built where all modes of transport would be integrated coherently. If we had a better bus station that was used more widely, people could come from north Kerry, County Clare and Cork, with which there could be direct links. It would also mean that there would be plenty of car parking spaces, as well as space for buses and even bikes. It would be a proper integrated transportation hub. We are supporting Bus Éireann in looking for funding to finish the bus station.

To respond to the reference to the quays in Waterford, I will have to double check and revert to the committee with correct dates, but the plan is moving well. The project was approved by the board recently. From memory, I believe the planning application might have been approved at this stage. I will check the exact point at which the project is at and formally respond to the committee. It is progressing well and there have been no roadblocks so far.