Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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777. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to provide funding to Iarnród Éireann to eliminate level crossings on the rail network intersecting with public roads that are neither manned nor have electronic barriers; the number of such crossings on the rail network; the estimated cost of eliminating same; if this work is eligible for funding under the stimulus fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32525/14]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. Issues  relating to level-crossings on the rail network are a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance. Exchequer funds are made available each year for investment in railway safety, asset renewal and maintenance. From 2014 these funds are governed by the Infrastructure Manager Multi Annual Contract (IMMAC) a requirement under EU rules.  The works covered by this contract are prioritised by  Iarnród Eireann based on appropriate risk assessments. Therefore level crossings may be funded under this contract if so prioritised.

There is no provision for the elimination of level-crossings under the stimulus fund provision of €7million for  public transport improvements announced in May 2014.  The funding will be used to refurbish PSO buses, add additional RTPI signs for public transport users and  upgrade bus stops and shelters across the country. It will also see improvements to cycling infrastructure and the commencement of work on improvements in and around  Colbert rail station, Limerick.

I have referred the Deputy's question to Iarnród Eireann for a direct reply on the specific queries as regards the numbers of unmanned level crossings on public roads and the costs associated with improvements.  If you do not receive a response within 10 working days, please contact my private office.