Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

I am satisfied that the investment of recent years in upgrading and expanding the rail network represents good value for money. The rail network has been revitalised and modernised and we now have a safer network with increased capacity, providing more services and carrying more passengers than ever. The benefits to the travelling public are evident in the increased numbers using the network on both commuter and intercity services.

Passenger numbers on the Iarnród Éireann network have grown from 35.37 million in 2002 to a projected 42.3 million in 2006. I was recently happy to see at an international conference that Ireland's rail network was referred to as the fastest-growing in Europe. The two Luas lines are an unprecedented success and have exceeded all projections for carrying passengers. An estimated 26 million passenger journeys were made in 2006 and a surplus was generated on the operation of the lines.

All major capital investments in railway upgrades and improvements and in rolling stock are subject to rigorous appraisal procedures, ensuring the need for each project and the options for delivering it are established within the objective of maximising value for money in accordance with Department of Finance guidelines. Major rail projects are being delivered on time and within budget.

Progress on projects is monitored through regular reporting by, and meetings with, the implementing agencies and through technical and financial audits of a selection of projects by independent consultants. I have also established a Transport 21 monitoring group, chaired by my Department and comprising representatives of relevant Departments, to oversee the monitoring arrangements. The chief executive officers of the implementing State agencies assist this group in its work.

I am satisfied the arrangements in place for the appraisal, approval and monitoring of projects are sufficiently robust to ensure value for money is secured.

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