Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent)
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183. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the details of the investment that is planned by Iarnród Éireann for its network in County Clare during 2022; the consideration that is being given to the opening of a rail stop at Crusheen, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9186/22]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As the Deputy may be aware, the Infrastructure Manager Multi Annual Contract (IMMAC) provides the funding framework for the protection and renewal of our railway infrastructure, including the rail line between Limerick and Athenry, which runs through County Clare.

This is the third year of the five year IMMAC programme, and in December, Government approved an additional €94.55m for the programme which means that over the five years of the programme, a total of just over €1.1billion in Exchequer funding will be made available to support delivery. This funding will increase service reliability and punctuality, improve journey times and ensure continued safety of rail services across the network.

As Minister of Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport. The opening of stations on the network, including the former station referred to at Crusheen, Co Clare, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance.

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