Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 877: To ask the Minister for Transport his plans to upgrade the Dublin to Westport rail service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1763/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The Dublin to Westport line has been totally re-laid with modern continuous welded track in recent years. Significant investment has been made in associated infrastructure, such as bridges, level crossings and fencing. Work is under way on a project to modernise the signalling system on the line, to be completed in 2007. Iarnród Éireann will begin taking delivery in 2007 of 150 new Intercity railcars to replace old rolling stock on a number of lines including the Westport line. Combined with the upgrading of the fixed infrastructure, the new railcars will allow the company to operate an increased frequency and improved journey times on the line, as well as improved reliability and comfort. Iarnród Éireann has indicated that it proposes to provide a service pattern of five services daily in each direction on the Westport line when the new rolling stock comes into service.