Seanad debates

Wednesday, 21 May 2003

Strategic Rail Review Report: Statements (Resumed).

 

10:30 am

Photo of Ivor CallelyIvor Callely (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)

On behalf of the Minister for Transport, Deputy Brennan, I thank the Members of the Seanad for this opportunity to address the Chamber on the strategic rail review. The Minister will give careful consideration to the views of Members. I also thank the Senators for the very fine contributions they have made to today's debate. It is clear that the issue of rail transport is a very live one in all parts of the country.

I will touch on certain comments made by Members. Senator Browne referred to the steering groups for the development of regional planning guidelines, and I want him to know that the Department of Transport is represented on the steering group. The possibility of rail-freight joint ventures will also be pursued, particularly by Irish Rail.

Senator McHugh referred to particular railway lines, some of which were considered in the course of the review. He also expressed views on business plans and appropriate land use and settlement strategies, views with which I know the Minister would concur. Senator Dooley mentioned the Shannon rail link, which will be considered by the Minister, along with the western rail corridor, a matter raised by a number of Senators. The Limerick-Ballybrophy line was also mentioned.

I concur with Senator O'Meara, and I know that the Minister for Transport, Deputy Brennan, would agree that there has been under-investment in the railways in the past. The Minister is determined to make a positive stab at catching up with the investment needed.

In relation to the need for improved services in the greater Dublin area, a matter raised by Senator Morrissey, that issue is addressed in the review, and other issues he raised will also be addressed. The review calls for the maximising of the full capacity available to Irish Rail, and this will be followed up by the implementation group.

Senator Cummins mentioned rail freight, the Limerick-Rosslare line and the Dublin-Rosslare line. I reiterate the firm commitment given by the Minister in this House today, a commitment he has made on a number of occasions, namely that no railway line will be closed. Senator Cummins also mentioned the need for major improvements on the Dublin-Waterford line. These have been recommended, and it is hoped they will proceed.

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