Earlier this year, the Department of Transport engaged consultants to undertake a major strategic review of the Irish railways. The primary purpose of the review is to provide the Government with a basis for establishing a strategic policy framework for the future development of the rail sector in Ireland over the next 20 years. The study covers both rail freight and rail passenger services and addresses urban, commuter and inter-regional rail issues. The long-term rail requirements for the country as a whole are being examined in the light of the emerging spatial planning and regional development policies and local land use and transportation studies. The review is due to be completed in the coming weeks.