Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I want to pose some observations and questions. I wish to compliment Irish Rail on putting out that expression of interest to the global manufacturers of trains. It is ambitious and I wish to compliment Irish Rail on that. It is encouraging to hear that the expression has been made to help move into a greener form of transport in the country.

My next comment is on ticketing. Is it possible to get a through ticket using Luas and the bus services? Is that an area where Irish Rail could do more work, especially if we include through tickets to Northern Ireland?

I welcome the improvement works in Ennis. They will improve accessibility, especially for people with disabilities. Planning permission was recently granted by Clare County Council to Irish Rail to improve services at Ennis Station. This is very much welcomed. Can Mr. Barry give an overview of the works planned? Can he outline a timeframe for the delivery of this important project?

I have raised the issue of the need for a rail spur to Shannon Airport. I have put forward the suggestion that a light rail service would be beneficial for Shannon Airport and for the region. It would also provide connectivity to the national rail line. A short light rail service should be looked at between Shannon Airport and Sixmilebridge. A total of 10,000 people work in the industrial estate in Shannon. It is a major location for people and there is a great deal of employment there. Sixmilebridge is an expanding population centre too. There are opportunities there. Would Irish Rail give consideration to putting together a feasibility study on that? Mr. Kenny might come back to me on that.

Irish Rail had some difficulties yesterday in Heuston Station with signalling. Can Mr. Kenny give an update on that issue?

I thank Mr. Kenny, the Irish Rail chief executive, Jim Meade, and Mr. Hedderly for their continuous engagement with this committee. I look forward to Mr. Kenny answering the questions that I posed.