Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 527: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plan to re-open a railway line (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28155/11]

Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)
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Matters relating to the re-opening, or alternative uses for unused rail lines are a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance. I understand that Iarnród Éireann currently has no plans to re-open the Mullingar to Athlone rail line.

In any event, given the new funding realities, the priority for use of scarce capital resources will be to protect investment made to date. This of necessity will greatly limit any possibility of re-opening unused rail lines. Moreover, the operating subsidies paid to Iarnród Éireann over the coming years are likely to be reduced considerably and thefore adding any new lines that would not make an operating profit will be difficult. However given that I have agreed to meet the local rail groups in Westmeath, I will listen to their views before initiating any action.