Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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685. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will make funding available in 2014 to Irish Rail to improve the appearance and condition of railway stations, especially those on tourist routes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2571/14]

Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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686. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide funding to improve the appearance of a railway station (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2572/14]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 685 and 686 together.

As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. Issues relating to the appearance of specific railway stations are day to day matters for the Board and Management of Iarnród Éireann and are not subject to my approval. Funding provided to Iarnród Éireann under the Capital Plan to 2016 is primarily to maintain safety standards for the rail network including  buildings. I do not have any additional resources available to me to fund a specific non safety related station improvement programme in 2014. I have however referred the Deputy’s question to Iarnród Éireann for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you don’t receive a reply within 10 working days.