Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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304. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to indicate the extent to which he expects to be in a position to ensure that commuters in north County Kildare can rely on an increase in commuter rail capacity by one or other means over the next 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53136/23]

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.

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