Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his question and his interest in this issue. As he is aware the maintenance, renewal and operation of the rail network is a matter for Iarnród Éireann and I understand local residents have recently met with Iarnród Éireann to discuss the issue in detail. Project Ireland 2040 states the priority funding objective regarding mainline rail is the maintenance and renewal of the existing network so that it continues to provide a safe and reliable infrastructure enabling the provision of quality rail services for passengers across the country. This means ensuring "steady state" levels of investment in our rail infrastructure each year for the foreseeable future. A significant and recurring capital investment of around €200 million is required from the taxpayer every year.

I am pleased to inform Deputy Burke that the funding I have secured under Project Ireland 2040 means we are in a position to provide this "steady state" level of funding. This is significant and welcome progress. It will deliver benefits to passengers across the network, including Westmeath, by allowing for increased levels of investment in things like signalling, ballast cleaning and track relaying. That will improve passenger journey experiences and may lead to better journey times. Another key area of interest for Westmeath rail commuters is the need for increased capacity and services. The National Transport Authority, NTA, and Iarnród Éireann are currently examining how best to source additional rolling stock as efficiently and effectively as possible while ensuring value for money for the taxpayer.

The NTA and Iarnród Éireann are exploring two options. One is the purchase or lease of second-hand fleet units and the second is the purchase of additional carriages to augment the existing commuter fleet used on the Mullingar line. The Deputy will be aware that the first option is complicated by the different gauge of the Irish rail network compared with international norms. The NTA, however, has recently advertised seeking expressions of interest. It is currently considering the responses received, as well as the second option to purchase additional carriages. I expect a decision on the medium term response to the capacity challenge will be made very shortly.

See this speech in context