Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)
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189. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he will take to liaise with Iarnród Éireann with a view to progressing the reopening of the train station at Thomastown, Killucan; his plans to visit the location to establish the position and the importance of same particularly in the provision of public transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38211/18]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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As the Deputy is aware the National Development Plan (NDP) notes the funding priority for the inter-urban rail network is to protect the investment already made in the national rail network, including the Mullingar line, by funding projects needed to maintain safety and service levels in railway operations. The NDP also confirms a number of key investment priorities to address transport demand and deliver a range of benefits over the next ten years.

As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport and the operation of the rail network and stations on the network is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance.

In view of Iarnród Éireann's responsibility in these matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.