Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I am glad to confirm that my Department has engaged with Iarnród Éireann on a possible future station in the Killucan–Kinnegad area. An initial discussion on the potential reopening of Killucan station took place between my Department and Iarnród Éireann on 15 June 2022. Following this discussion, Iarnród Éireann was asked by my Department to prepare an estimate of the level of funding that might be required to progress a feasibility study considering new station options in Killucan and the surrounding area.

Earlier this year, my Department met again with Iarnród Éireann and subsequently made funding available to the company to allow it to undertake a Killucan–Rathwire and Kinnegad area transport environs study. As well as considering the former station at Killucan, the wider geographic scope of the environs study will help to ensure the optimal location for any future potential station is identified with respect to population, transport demand and proximity to the existing network. This study will provide the necessary analysis to determine the viability of a future station in the area if such a station is deemed appropriate by the study. Ultimately, if the opening of a new station in the area is to be progressed, it will be necessary for Westmeath County Council to develop the business case in line with the requirements of the public spending code. I am informed that the council has been informed of this position; however, this study is a vital first step and it is appropriate that it be funded by my Department.

The Deputy may wish to note the ongoing work on the all-island strategic rail review, the results of which will inform the development of the railway sector in Ireland over the coming decades.

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