Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Conway for his remarks. Now that he has raised this case with me, Crusheen will certainly be embedded in my mind when these matters are being considered. I might respond to his sensible agreement that a lack of funding has been responsible for many of the difficulties relating to our railways by saying we expect that the rail review, which has identified a funding gap of approximately €103 million per annum over a long period, will compel us to address the problem of underfunding. The funding gap has to be addressed by subvention or other means. The crisis with our railways cannot be allowed to continue in this way. This means that we must address the problem according to two criteria.One is the social need for rail and the absolute commitment of the Government to a very efficient and necessary rail network in this country. Whether that is done by subvention or value for money will be something decided when the consultation process is over. All I can say to Senator Conway is that no stations have been identified for either building or closure at this stage. That process will take place after the consultations are completed and handed into the NTA which will then report to us. It will put the case that Senator Conway has made for Crusheen in the mix.