Written answers

Tuesday, 21 June 2011

Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport

Rail Network

9:00 pm

Photo of Éamon Ó CuívÉamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 411: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when a decision will be made to grant funding for the design of the second phase of the western rail corridor between Tuam and Athenry, County Galway; the reason for the delay in progressing this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16167/11]

Photo of Leo VaradkarLeo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As the Deputy is aware the Government recently announced a comprehensive review of capital spending which is now underway. The Deputy will be further aware of the necessity of such a review, given the poor fiscal position this State was left in due to the mismanagement of the State's finances by the outgoing Fianna Fáil led government. This position means that there will be, over the coming years, a substantial reduction in the finance available to fund capital projects. As such, the comprehensive review will examine all future capital projects and establish a set of priority projects and programmes that will support economic recovery and provide new employment opportunities. The results of this will form the basis of a new National Development Plan.

The preparation of the new framework requires that my Department review all existing projects and programmes. The review will also need to take account of new funding realities. A major priority will be to ensure funding to protect and maintain investment made to date and to maintain high safety standards. This will of necessity restrict the funding for new projects with only those offering the highest return having any prospect of being prioritised. No decision will be made on funding the design of the second phase of the western rail corridor until the capital review is complete. A new National Development Plan arising from the capital review is expected to be published in September.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.