Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 58: To ask the Minister for Transport if he will report on the operation of the western rail corridor from Limerick to Galway in its first month of operation; the timeframe for the completion of the full four phases of the WRC from Athenry to Tuam, Tuam to Claremorris and Claremorris to Collooney; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17872/10]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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The first phase of the Western Rail Corridor was opened on 29th March. The provision and operation of services on the rail network is a matter for Iarnród Eireann and I have no function in this matter.

I understand from Iarnród Eireann that the next step will be for them to undertake a detailed evaluation of Phases 2 and 3 with a view to arriving at precise costs to undertake the works. The current funding environment is very difficult and it will not be possible to progress all the projects in Transport 21 in accordance with the ambitious timescale envisioned at its launch.

Despite this, I am seeking to progress planning of the Western Rail Corridor Phases 2 and 3, to ensure that Iarnród Eireann will be in a position to move speedily to construction at the earliest possible date once financial circumstances permit. The section of the line from Claremorris to Collooney is currently being preserved under the Clár Programme and Iarnród Eireann will look again at its reopening when Phases 2 and 3 are completed.