Mark Duffy (Fine Gael)

Under the all-island rail review, the western rail corridor was identified as a priority project. What can be done to expedite the delivery of the line from Athenry to Claremorris, in particular, which includes 33 km of track in public ownership? We have been talking about billions of euro of investment in infrastructure for Dublin. This project has an estimated cost of approximately €220 million and would give connectivity between Galway and Mayo and across the western seaboard. Hypothetically, a passenger could get on a train in Mayo and go all the way to Dublin. It would be very positive for freight connectivity to Foynes and also for intercounty connectivity. I do not have an exact estimate of costs but we are looking at between €200 million and €300 million with inflation to deliver 33 km of track that is in public ownership. It is an open goal. What can be done to expedite it?

Will consideration be given to reopening Ballyvary and Balla railway stations? Those locations have seen an increase in population. We often talk about improving public transport and connectivity in rural areas. This is a great opportunity to stimulate revitalisation of the west of Ireland, including smaller settlements where railway stations have closed. I welcome the witnesses' consideration of and comments on that.