Mr. Barry Kenny:

Effectively, it is for strategic infrastructure. Specifically, the railway order process is for rail infrastructure. Typically, there would be at least two rounds of non-statutory public consultation directly between Iarnród Éireann and affected communities, and obviously the wider public. Then we would formally lodge an application for a railway order to An Bord Pleanála. It would be open to anybody to make applications, submissions or objections, or leave messages of support. An Bord Pleanála would then consider the proposal. It is within its gift to include an oral hearing. Of relevance in this regard is our programme to remove a number of level crossings on the Dublin–Cork line. There is a very small number left. I believe there are seven. We went the railway order route to achieve the works. An Bord Pleanála held an oral hearing and is currently considering the proposal. Ultimately, when we are granted a railway order, we get planning permission to carry out the works, but we do not get the money as that involves a funding decision. As part of the permission, CPO powers are granted if needed. The preference is always to achieve any temporary or permanent land acquisition by negotiation. It differs depending on the project, but both options are available.