Louis O'Hara (Galway East, Sinn Fein)

The differences are striking when we look at a map of Ireland's current rail network compared to the network of 100 years ago. I refer in particular to the absence of infrastructure from the west, the north west and Border counties. The reality is that we have gone backwards in recent decades. Plans are one thing but we need implementation to progress new projects in a timely manner and to address the imbalance in regional infrastructure.

The western rail corridor is critical to the region. It has been talked about and put on the long finger for years. If the Government is serious about regional development, this project must be progressed. We must get a move on. The project is shovel-ready and can be delivered in the lifetime of this Government. We cannot have the same debate in five years' time.

The benefits of rail are well known in terms of taking cars off the road, reducing congestion, enhancing freight potential and delivering a sustainable transport link for the people of north Galway and Mayo into Galway city and ultimately on to Sligo as well. There cannot be any more delays on this project, which must be commenced as soon as possible.

The double-tracking of the Athenry to Galway line is critical. Athenry is at the crossroads of the Ennis and future Claremorris sections of the western rail corridor and the Dublin to Galway line. Double-tracking is needed to ensure we have a proper commuter service between Galway city and county and to cities right across the country.

As the Minister of State outlined, the passing loop at Oranmore and the redevelopment of Ceannt Station are very welcome, as is the capacity study on the Galway to Dublin line, which was announced in recent days.

Similar to the western rail corridor, the current issues and the benefits of implementing improvements are well known. Reports are one thing but delivery is another. That is where the Government has always been lacking. Commuters are sick and tired of overcrowded services, delays and restrictions because of the single track and the total absence of infrastructure, as is the case in north Galway and Mayo.

We need ambition and to future-proof the rail infrastructure and, crucially, get projects delivered.

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