Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour) | Oireachtas source

There is merit in what the Deputy says about level crossings. When I took up my role in the Department, one thing that struck me straightaway was the volume of funding going towards railway safety measures. A substantial amount, €1.9 billion, has been invested since 1999. There is probably just cause to say priority should have been given to particular crossings during the years. I am aware of some of the crossings to which the Deputy referred. The completion date for the Reilly's Bridge crossing is the end of 2014. That said, in the past two years Iarnród Éireann has been prioritising areas where crossings need attention on a risk basis. It will continue to be active in that regard and ensure it prioritises those crossings where there are safety risks or greater efficiency can be achieved. The Deputy is aware that improvements have been made under our work programme in improving speeds on various lines throughout the country. Some of these improvements are due to a number of crossings being dealt with.

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