Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Question 134: To ask the Minister for Transport the most recent talks he has had with his northern counterpart on developing the direct train service (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34463/08]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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The upgrading and extension of the mainline railway system is a matter for consideration by Irish Rail in the first instance. I understand from Irish Rail that it has no plans to develop a direct rail line from Dublin to Derry and such a proposal does not form part of Transport 21.

Currently rail services to Derry are available via Belfast. The upgrading of Belfast-Derry rail services is a matter for the Authorities in Northern Ireland. However I understand that this service is being considered by the Northern Ireland authorities in the context of overall plans for the development of Northern Ireland's railways.