Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 64: To ask the Minister for Transport the progress which has been made in relation to the commencement of construction work on the re-opening of the western rail corridor; the budget for this project as envisaged under the Transport 21 strategy; when this project will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36033/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Following the launch of Transport 21, I have asked Iarnród Éireann to commence the design and planning stages of the western rail corridor from Ennis to Claremorris. The line will be developed on a phased basis, with Ennis to Athenry being completed in 2008, Athenry to Tuam in 2011 and Tuam to Claremorris in 2014.

Transport 21 includes a financial provision to cover the anticipated cost of the project. However, I do not propose to release this commercially sensitive information until the public procurement process for this project is completed.

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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Question 65: To ask the Minister for Transport when the appointment of an inspector to hold the public inquiry required under the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001 can be expected (details supplied). [36053/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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CIE submitted to me an application for a railway order for the Kildare route project on 5 October under the terms of the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001. I have directed that a public inquiry be held into the application and on 28 October I appointed Mr. Pat Butler SC as inspector to the inquiry. I understand that the inspector will begin the inquiry early in 2006 and that the findings will be submitted to me soon after its conclusion.