Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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148. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the budget and timeline for each phase of the upgrading of the Foynes-Limerick rail line; if this line will have to be raised for flood protection reasons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63235/22]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport. The operation, maintenance and renewal of the rail network, including the rehabilitation of the rail freight link from Shannon Foynes Port to Limerick, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance. 

I can confirm that €64 million was allocated by my Department to Iarnród Éireann in respect of rehabilitation works on the freight line in 2022. Further funding will be made available for works on the freight line this year and in 2024 under the Infrastructure Manager Multi-Annual Contract, which is the framework through which protection and renewal works on the rail network are funded and delivered.

In view of the Infrastructure Manager's responsibility in carrying out the rehabilitation works, I have referred the Deputy's question to Iarnród Éireann for a more detailed reply on the specific issues raised.  Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.