Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 280: To ask the Minister for Transport the number of railway level crossings that are electronically operated throughout the country; the number that are manually operated; the proposals for having all automated and the timescale; when crossings (details supplied) will be automated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29242/07]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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Iarnród Éireann has informed me that there are currently 1560 level crossings on the Iarnród Éireann network of which 73 are electronically operated, 204 are manually operated and 1283 are unmanned. A programme of automation of manned crossings is underway and 40 have been automated since 2006. This programme will continue over the period of Transport 21.

I am also informed by Iarnród Éireann that since 1999 538 unmanned crossings have been closed and upgrading works undertaken on 387. This programme of elimination/upgrading will continue but it is not proposed to automate the majority of these. I understand from Iarnród Éireann that it is examining options for Reilly's Crossing and Ashtown crossing including both automation and grade separation.