Paddy McHugh (Galway East, Independent)

The urgency to reduce transport emissions is acknowledged by all. As this need has been accepted, should a serious search not begin for the means to bring about the reduction? The motion before the House illustrates where to begin.

Rail in general is regarded as a poor relation, but is this not wrong? There are underutilised rail lines in many parts of the country. In Galway East, some lines are not used at all. In recent years, there has been much talk about re-opening the western rail corridor and certain decisions have been taken, but they could be described as begrudging in view of the unacceptably long timeframe envisaged. For example, the Tuam-Athenry line will not re-open until 2011. There is no reason for such a delay. I welcome the commencement of work on the Ennis-Athenry section, but work should start immediately on the Tuam-Athenry section to allow both lines to open simultaneously. The west is entitled to this infrastructural investment. The decision has been made and we have been told the money is there, but the work should begin and the west should be allowed to feel the benefit now rather than in five years.

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