Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy for his response and commitment to the sector. The Deputy is very passionate about it and I will raise with the Minister the Deputy's comments, which are on the record of the Dáil. This all-Ireland strategic rail review is being conducted on an all-island basis in full co-operation with our colleagues in the Northern Ireland Executive and at official level in the Department of Infrastructure in Northern Ireland. It would, therefore, provide a holistic view of the potential of rail on the island. The review is considering the scope for improved rail services and infrastructure along the various existing or potential future corridors of the network, including disused and closed lines. It would be premature, however, to comment on the reopening of the western rail corridor or any other line before the review is finalised.

As mentioned in my opening statement, work on the review is now at an advanced stage and it is expected that the draft will be published for the purposes of the strategic environmental assessment public consultation later this month. Following the SEA process and the finalisation of the report, it is expected to be submitted for the approval of the Minister for Transport and the Government in the autumn, as well as to the Minister for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland. Should there continue to be an absence of ministers in the Northern Ireland Executive, approval will be considered to take into account the relevant decision-making framework set out in Northern Ireland legislation at that particular time. It is expected the final review will be published in the autumn of 2023.

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