Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I definitely was not trying to give the Deputy a history lesson but what I was trying to politely push back against the assertion that we are not investing in the transport infrastructure. I know those works I referenced in Oranmore and Ceannt are under way and I know the Deputy and others will welcome that.

When it comes to Dexcom, the idea of its potential for a rail freight siding there could also assist the company and we are happy to engage constructively on that. The western rail corridor is an exciting proposition and I know the recent all-island strategic rail review recommended we reopen the western rail corridor. This will be seen in time as a pivotal milestone in this regard. I note it is a review that has been very warmly welcomed in Galway and Mayo. I point out that the project has been highlighted in the review as one that the Deputy has correctly noted the Government can progress in a short timeframe. It is unlikely we can progress it in the next 24 to 48 hours but what it does give a very strong case to those of us fortunate enough to be elected or re-elected to Dáil Éireann to have the progress for that in any future programme for Government, whosoever may make up that Government. I believe the work done on the rail review puts the western rail corridor in a really strong position to progress.

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