Niall Blaney (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to discuss the railway strategic review which is now under way. It was announced by the Ministers, Nichola Mallon, MLA, and Deputy Eamon Ryan on 29 November. I did not speak on it last week because of the whole mica situation. I did not want to blur the lines. I very much want to emphasise that this review is now taking place. I thank the two Ministers for the input they have had and wish to put on record some of the conditions they have set in respect of the review. The press release states that the strategic review of the rail network on the island of Ireland will examine improving sustainable connectivity to the major cities, enhancing regional accessibility, including the north west, which is very significant for us in the north west, and supporting balanced regional development while considering the potential to increase rail freight. The strategic rail review reflects an Irish Government commitment under the New Decade, New Approach agreement. It also recognises the will and input of the shared island unit and the Taoiseach's desire to have rail connectivity in the north west.

When I say the north west I am talking to those who are involved in that north west city status area of Donegal, Tyrone and Derry. I am asking them to take the time to look up the site for the rail review at strategicrailreview.com. Submissions have to be in by 21 January. This is for the first time providing a real opportunity for the people of all the north west to bring back rail connectivity with the potential for speed rail between Derry and Belfast. It is a great opportunity for an area that has lost rail since the middle of the last century. I ask communities, business people and individuals to make their submissions and help get this off the ground.