Michael Harty (Clare, Independent)
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618. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a plan is being developed with the Office of Public Works and Clare County Council to prevent recurring flooding on the Ennis to Limerick rail line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39666/16]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The maintenance of the heavy rail network is an operational matter for Iarnrod Éireann (IÉ).

My Department provides funding to IÉ for the maintenance and renewal of the heavy rail network nationwide under a contract, the Infrastructure Manager Multi-Annual Contract (IMMAC), in accordance with EU law. The current contract covers a five year period from 2014 - 2018. Funding of €126m was provided to IÉ under the provisions of the IMMAC in 2016.

The Deputy will also be aware that additional funding of €96.1m was allocated to my Department for flood repairs to storm damaged roads and rail lines. €8m was specifically ringfenced for repair of flood damage to the rail network, and has been directed to IÉ to carry out the necessary repair and remediation works.

In view of  IE's responsibility for maintenance of the rail network, I have referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you don't receive a reply within 10 working days.