Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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301. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to indicate the extent to which he expects commuter rail passenger numbers to increase when the lines are upgraded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53133/23]

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 operations of public transport.

I understand that Iarnród Éireann's operational fleet is fully deployed on scheduled services at present, in line with prevailing demand. However, 41 new Intercity railcar carriages (ICRs) are currently undergoing dynamic testing, with these due to enter service in 2024. As the ICRs are intermediate carriages, they will facilitate the lengthening of existing train sets. The deployment of new carriages is a matter in the first instance for Iarnród Éireann in consultation with the National Transport Authority (NTA), which has statutory responsibility for the development and delivery of certain public transport infrastructure, including the purchase of rolling stock.

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.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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302. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to indicate the extent to which the electrification of the Maynooth railway line is progressing; the extent to which timetables are being met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53134/23]

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 in Ireland. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, including the DART+ West project. In conjunction with service operators, the NTA also has responsibility for the scheduling of these rail services.

Noting the NTA and Iarnród Éireann's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA and Iarnród Éireann for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.