Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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1028. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport in view of the exceptionally positive passenger numbers for Iarnród Éireann, and particularly on the western rail corridor, his views that the future continuation of this line would consolidate such increases and contribute to sustainable regional development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1752/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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The extension of the Western Rail Corridor was postponed in 2011.Under the current capital plan the key priority with the level of resources available is to protect investments made to date and to maintain safety standards.

If additional funds become available under the next capital plan, which is not certain, there will be many competing projects from all transport modes in all regions. Any additional funds will be prioritised for projects for which there is a clear need, which are affordable, have a sound business case and add value to existing infrastructure.

However, I will not support any change of use of this route that would preclude rail use in the future.