Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Kenny for his comprehensive response. On the north quays, it is such a critical piece and an opportunity to develop infrastructure, not just for the city but for the entire south-east region. I understand that planning permission is due to be sorted in the next few months and a private developer is working with the council to develop the site as well. This is something that is going to happen in a number of months, it is not just a plan or something that is sitting out there. Aside from Irish Rail's liaison and co-operation, is there a funding ask from Irish Rail on this or is it something with which it will be approaching the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport separately? As I said, if the north quays project was not happening, Irish Rail would have to invest in Plunkett Station anyway due to the issues that are there with the track in its current location because of the rockfall from the cliff and the fact that it is only a one-platform station, as Mr. Kenny said.

Investment is required there anyway. Will Irish Rail be setting aside the proposed investment and putting it along with additional investment to relocate the station? It is a substantial ask and is a substantial project.

I do not want it being said that Irish Rail is a problem when the others are moving on. It is important that all stakeholders work together. This is an opportunity for Irish Rail. There will be growth in the population. We expect growth in tourism in the south east. I believe we can attract far more users to that service once we have an adequate train station and an adequate integrated transport hub, which is the plan. That will happen in a number of months rather than years. I am keen to hear as much as Mr. Kenny can tell me about the plans for the funding of that project.