Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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138. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if more frequent direct Kerry-to-Dublin train services will be introduced; if more frequent Kerry connections will be facilitated on high-speed Cork-to-Dublin services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21008/23]

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 operation and provision of public transport.

The Deputy may be aware that there is a major relevant rail carriage capacity enhancement project underway, the purchase of 41 additional intercity rail cars, delivery of which commenced last September. These new rail cars will allow for enhanced services across the rail network when introduced into service this year. As part of ongoing work by the National Transport Authority (NTA) and Iarnród Éireann on a network-wide basis, consideration will be given to providing new and additional carriages where demand, available carriages and suitable infrastructure support such provision.

As such, the queries raised by the Deputy in relation to Kerry-to-Dublin train services are operational matters for Iarnród Éireann in conjunction with the NTA and I have therefore forwarded the Deputy's question to Iarnród Éireann for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.