Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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82. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans and timelines to increase the capacity of the rail network through the acquisition of new trains; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29563/19]

Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail)
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667. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans and timelines to increase the capacity of the rail network to Ceannt station, Galway, through the acquisition of new trains and new lines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29908/19]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 82, 83 and 667 together.

I refer the Deputies in the first instance to my reply earlier this afternoon to Deputy MacSharry's Priority question on this matter.

As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport.  The operation of the heavy rail network and for assessing rolling stock requirements for the rail network including Galway, are a matter for Iarnród Éireann in consultation with the National Transport Authority (NTA) which also has statutory responsibility for the development and implementation of public transport in the Greater Dublin Area and regional cities.

As explained in my earlier reply, Iarnród Éireann in consultation with the National Transport Authority, are currently examining how best to source additional rolling stock as efficiently and effectively as possible and ensuring value for money for the taxpayer. 

Noting the responsibility of the agencies, I have referred the Deputies questions to the NTA, for a more detailed direct reply on the issues raised.  Please advise my office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.