Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I want to recognise the presence of Mr. John Fitzgerald from the National Parks and Wildlife Service; from Clare County Council, Ms Carmel Kirby, director of physical development, and Mr. John Leahy, senior engineer, roads and transportation department; from the OPW, Mr. John Sydenham, commissioner, and Mr. Cian Ó Dónaill; Mr. Colin Hedderly and Mr. Barry Kenny from Iarnród Éireann; and Dr. Ted McCormack of GSI, who has just given us his opening statement.

I am very much encouraged by today's opening statements. The key question, once this preferred option is put together, is how it will be funded. Has there been any discussion among the groups that are working together on the question of funding? What are the next steps that need to be taken? Will there be any public consultation on the preferred option that will emerge? Is there any timeframe for construction works on this scheme? Perhaps Mr. Kenny of Iarnród Éireann could answer those very easy questions.