Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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906. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the estimated cost of carrying out a feasibility study on reopening the railway line from Dublin to Kingscourt, County Cavan; the average cost of a rail feasibility study in general; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44445/19]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I have previously informed the Deputy that the priority funding objective in relation to mainline rail is the maintenance and renewal of the existing operating network. That objective is supported by the significantly enhanced funding now available to support that network as evidenced by the approximate 23% increase in Exchequer funding provided in 2019.

The Deputy is also aware from previous answers I have given on this issue that there is no funding provided within Project Ireland 2040for the re-opening of the Kingscourt line nor to undertake a feasibility on the line.

In light of the National Transport Authority (NTA)'s responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, I have referred the Deputy's specific question in relation to the average cost of a rail feasibility study to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.