Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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128. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 33 of 17 June 2021, if he will provide specific details in relation to the scheduled movements, including the planned frequency of the scheduled movements and the evidence to support this frequency in terms of ensuring the continuation of the current functionality of the bridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34766/21]

Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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129. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 33 of 17 June 2021, if he has sought and or received any independent advice or evaluation in relation Iarnród Éireann's decision, including from the Commission for Railway Regulation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34767/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 128 and 129 together.

As the Deputy is aware, as Minister for Transport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The maintenance of the rail network, including 'closed' lines such as the Wexford to Waterford line, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance.

As is well-known there have been no scheduled passenger services on the Wexford to Waterford line in almost 11 years at this stage. Services ceased in accordance with the applicable legislative framework and subject to an agreement between Iarnród Éireann and the National Transport Authority. The maintenance of 'closed' lines is a matter for Iarnród Éireann as Infrastructure Manager and I am informed there is no role as such for the Commission for Rail Regulation in this matter.

As I have previously stated I am informed that the planned securing of the bridge in the open position in no way removes the future functionality of the bridge to carry rail traffic should services on this line resume. In view of Iarnród Éireann's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the company for a detailed direct reply in relation to the planned frequency of the scheduled movements and the evidence to support this frequency in terms of ensuring the continuation of the current functionality of the bridge. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.