Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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98. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the desirability and possibility of having heavy rail or light rail connections to, or adjacent to, Dublin, Cork, Kerry, Shannon and Ireland West Airport, Belfast city, Belfast International and Derry airports is being examined as part of the all-Ireland rail review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9191/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As the Deputy may be aware, the Strategic Rail Reviewis being undertaken in co-operation with the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland. The results of the review will inform the development of the railway sector on the Island of Ireland over the coming decades.

The Strategic Rail Review is considering the future of the rail network with regard to the following ambitions: improving sustainable connectivity between the major cities, including the potential for higher/high-speed; enhancing regional accessibility; supporting balanced regional development; and rail connectivity to our international gateways. The potential for rail connectivity to airports across the island is a specific consideration within this scope.

A draft report is currently being finalised. The draft report will be submitted for approval to Ministers in Ireland and Northern Ireland, as well as the Irish Government. After the necessary approvals have been secured, my Department will publish the report.