David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 106: To ask the Minister for Transport further to the recent decision by the Government to sanction the reopening of the rail link to Midleton in east Cork, the progress that has been achieved in this matter in the meantime; the estimated cost of reopening the line; when he expects the reopening to occur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4794/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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In May 2004, the Government agreed to the development of a commuter rail service for the Cork area. This includes the relaying of track and signalling between Glounthaune and Midleton as well as the construction of a number of new stations along the length of the route.

I understand that Iarnród Éireann is finalising an engineering feasibility study of the proposed Glounthaune to Midleton section of the line. It appears that there are no insurmountable engineering difficulties and the company will proceed to the public consultation phase shortly. An application for a railway order will follow under the terms of the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001. The feasibility study will identify the projected cost of reinstating the line and will establish a timeframe for the project. The project will be financed by the Exchequer, EU funds and by special contribution schemes, established by the local authorities in Cork.