Martin Browne (Tipperary, Sinn Fein)
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157. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the benefits that more focused strategic planning to ensure a minimum level of rail services and standards for rural and regional railways would have for rural Ireland and for regional connectivity; his further views on extending public service obligation services to foster greater development in and use of these rail services with particular reference to the Limerick-Ballybrophy line and services involving Limerick junction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21065/22]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As the Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. 

I would like to assure the Deputy that the all-island Strategic Rail Review being undertaken in co-operation with the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland will include in its consideration the potential for further development of rural and regional railways, and as a consequence, the scope for improved rail services to enhance regional connectivity. 

The issue of the strategic planning of rail services and the extension of public service obligation services is a matter first and foremost for the National transport Authority (NTA) in conjunction with Iarnród Éireann, and I have therefore forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply.

Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response from the NTA within ten working days.