Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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13. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when he will publish the modified report regarding the future plans for the DART underground project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32677/16]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I understand that the Deputy's Question relates to the Rail Review 2016 rather than the DART Underground.

I intend to bring the Rail Review 2016 to Cabinet next week and after that it will be published. The National Transport Authority (NTA) will also then commence a public consultation process. This is in line with what I previously undertook to do.

Despite some suggestions to the contrary, I want to emphasise that no decisions will be taken in relation to any individual rail lines, or any of the options identified in the Review, in advance of the full process of public consultation. Members of the public, and all other stakeholders, will have an opportunity to examine the Review and contribute to the debate on the future of rail in Ireland. The Review follows on from the Strategic Investment Framework for Land Transport, published by my Department last year.

The review identifies a funding gap for Irish Rail, based on the projected allocations prior to Budget 2017. I would point out that decisions on Budget 2017 provide for additional funding of over €50 million to Irish Rail next year.

This significant increase in funding for next year allows for increasing investment in maintenance and renewal of the network and the rolling stock, and also to provide more funding for safety projects. Safety remains the priority for Irish Rail.

It is also encouraging to note that Irish Rail is experiencing business growth with increasing passenger journeys. The re-opening of the Phoenix Park tunnel in the coming weeks for commuter services from the Kildare line to the stations between Connolly and Grand Canal Dock and the expansion of DART services to a ten minute frequency will also help to grow the business.

In the meantime, I would encourage all stakeholders to avail of the opportunity to outline their views on the future of the rail network.