Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Renua Ireland)
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23. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to deal with overcrowding on the DART during peak times; if Irish Rail has looked for more funding to provide more trains and carriages during peak times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31954/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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I understand that the National Transport Authority and Iarnród Éireann are actively examining a proposal to increase the DART frequency to 10 minutes in the peak commencing early in 2016 to improve the service to customers and that the necessary funding issues involved are being considered at present. I  would point out that I have secured additional funding for rail both this year and last year. For the first time since 2008, the level of PSO funding for rail services is being maintained in 2015 at the same level as in 2014. I was also able to secure an additional €101 million in funding for our public transport companies in a Supplementary Estimate at the end of last year, which included €45 million for Irish Rail's network renewal investment. In July this year, I also announced an additional €100 million for my Department's capital programme. Of this, €29m will deliver much needed maintenance on rail rolling stock and a further €9m is being allocated towards the Rail safety programme.

I will continue to seek necessary PSO funding  and increased  investment in our rail network to enhance the customer experience.