Paul McGrath (Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 265: To ask the Minister for Transport the priority which will be given to suburban rail improvements in Dublin's rail procurement and upgrade programme; and if the metro, airport link and Luas extensions will not have funding priority over suburban rail improvements. [24172/04]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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My Department, in consultation with the relevant State agencies under my aegis — CIE, RPA and the DTO — is in the process of finalising a prioritised investment programme for public transport over the medium term. In this regard, Irish Rail recently submitted to my Department a strategy document that sets out the business case for a greater Dublin integrated rail network. The business case is being examined at present. The Railway Procurement Agency's proposals in respect of the further development of Luas and the metro are also being taken into account.

Paul McGrath (Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 266: To ask the Minister for Transport if significant suburban rail improvements on the Connolly-Maynooth line can be expected within the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24173/04]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by Irish Rail that significant improvements are planned for the Maynooth line in the short to medium term. There are currently eight-piece railcars running on all services on the Maynooth line. New diesel railcars will be introduced on the Sligo route with increased frequency from December 2005, providing additional capacity on the Maynooth section. An additional eight-piece railcar peak service to Maynooth is currently being investigated for introduction in 2005. The potential of locating new stations along the route at Pelletstown, Phoenix Park and Porterstown is currently being assessed. There are also plans for the development of a 360-space car park at Louisa Bridge.