Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his fair response in respect of this matter. Two major issues have challenged the railway line in question. I acknowledge that the projected passenger numbers did not materialise. First, the downturn in the economy affected all sectors of our society. Second, as the Minister correctly pointed out, parts of the line between Ennis and Limerick were closed for almost six months in 2015 due to flooding. That was always going to hamper the number of people using the line. I agree with the Minister that we cannot expand the rail network any further. We have to maintain and develop the current network. I would slightly disagree with the Minister. I am of the view that the more railway stations that are opened, the better because additional stations make our railway lines more accessible. I think Crusheen has a case to make. I will subscribe to the review. I encourage those who are promoting the need for a railway station in Crusheen to do likewise. As the economy continues to grow, I hope funding will be available to provide the people of Crusheen and the surrounding districts with a railway station.