Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent)
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647. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the role of light and heavy rail in climate change mitigation; the plans in place to use rail to mitigate climate change outside of the Dublin and Kildare area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21867/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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​I fully recognise the importance of the rail network in our national efforts to reduce emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Irish Rail currently operates one of the most modern fleets in Europe, employing a number of energy efficiency initiatives including technological solutions, driver behavioural change programmes and improved train configurations. These initiatives increase fuel efficiencies, decrease energy requirements and consequentially lead to a reduction in pollutant and particulate emissions.

In line with the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2015, a National Mitigation Plan, is currently being developed by Government. I will submit transport sector emissions mitigation measures for inclusion in the plan to the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment later this month. The measures will reflect a multifaceted approach to reducing emissions with a particular focus on investment in public and sustainable transport in order to promote modal shift, supports for alternative fuels (including electrification of heavy rail where it is feasible and cost-effective to do so), and fiscal and taxation incentives to target behavioural change.

Rail will play an important role with rail projects supplementing the range of viable low carbon alternatives to the car, particularly in urban areas where high capacity transport plays a vital role in efficient, lower-carbon travel. A very significant proportion (approximately €1.3 billion) of the overall €3.6 billion of funding available for public transport in the Government's Capital Plan is required for maintenance of the heavy rail network, benefitting the network both within and outside of the Greater Dublin Area (GDA).  A further €250m approximately is provisionally allocated for other improvements to the heavy rail network. 

The Rail Review underwent public consultation earlier this year, enabling a public discussion on the current and future role of rail in Ireland as well as the funding of the rail network and services.  The public consultation process is currently being evaluated. Rail plays an important role in meeting increased passenger demand and providing an energy efficient mode of transport. Electrified rail use, in particular, is capable of achieving low emissions through utilising renewable sources of energy.  However, public transport modes are only more environmentally sustainable compared to private cars when they are operating at appropriate levels of occupancy. A full train produces much fewer emissions per passenger than a large car with 1.5 passengers; however, an under-occupied bus or train emits more emissions per passenger than a full small car. Accurately matching the right mode of transport to passenger demand is critical in ensuring emission savings.