Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 187: To ask the Minister for Transport his plans for upgrading the train lines in south Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26306/08]

Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 188: To ask the Minister for Transport the plans for upgrading the train station in Cahir, County Tipperary; the improvements planned for the routes going through Cahir; and the average number of people who currently use the station on a weekly basis. [26312/08]

Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 189: To ask the Minister for Transport the plans for upgrading the train station in Clonmel, County Tipperary; the improvements planned for the routes going through Clonmel; and the average number of people who currently use the station on a weekly basis. [26313/08]

Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 190: To ask the Minister for Transport the plans for upgrading the train station in Carrick-on-Suir, County Tipperary; the improvements planned for the routes going through Carrick-on-Suir; and the average number of people who currently use the station on a weekly basis. [26314/08]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 187 to 190, inclusive, together.

The maintenance and development of the railway network, including stations, and railway services are a matter for Iarnród Éireann. I am informed by the company that Cahir, Clonmel and Carrick-on-Suir are currently served by 8 trains per day (four in each direction between Waterford and Limerick Junction, with connections to and from Dublin trains at Limerick Junction).

I understand that this represents an improvement in the previously very minimal service and as a consequence Iarnród Éireann report that the passenger business on the Limerick Junction-Waterford route has increased by 40% in the first five months of 2008, compared to the same period in 2007.

I am informed by Iarnród Éireann that work is currently underway on the line to renew the track to continuous welded rail consistent with Iarnród Éireann's mainline standards.