Liam Twomey (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 48: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding policy on freight transportation by rail; if he is in discussion with CIE regarding the future of rail freight; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8579/11]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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I have met the Chairman and senior executives in Iarnród Éireann since my appointment and a range of issues were discussed, including rail freight. I understand from Iarnród Éireann that it has, in recent years, substantially restructured its rail freight activity into a profitable business sector within the company. In that context, Iarnród Éireann has made progress in developing the rail freight business in areas where it holds a competitive advantage over road haulage, e.g. large volumes or trainloads over longer distances.

Freight trains are operated daily for primary products such as timber from the West of Ireland to Waterford and zinc ore from Tara Mines to Dublin Port. Import/Export container trains are also operated to and from Ballina to both Waterford Port and the Port of Dublin. Iarnród Éireann will pursue further profitable rail freight business opportunities, where feasible. I understand from Iarnrod Eireann that the recent completion by the Port of Dublin of a new rail spur within the port area will enhance connectivity for further growth in the rail freight business to and from Dublin Port.

Question No. 49 answered with Question No. 29.