Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme represents the largest investment in the rail network in Cork undertaken by the State. Phase 1 of the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme, ‘Enable future electrification of Cork Commuter Rail’, was included in Ireland’s National Recovery & Resilience Plan (NRRP) as submitted to the European Commission in 2021. All works associated with Phase 1 will be completed by Quarter 3 2026 as required by the European Commission.

This will see a €185 million investment, €164m of which is EU funds, in Cork’s rail infrastructure. This will facilitate the longer-term electrification of the network through construction of a new ‘through’ platform at Kent Station to create an integrated suburban network, re-signalling of the network, and double-tracking from Glounthaune to Midleton. All works included in the NRRP should be completed by 2026 as required by the European Commission.

Following approval from Cork City Council, the construction contract for the additional platform at Kent Station was awarded in early 2023 and enabling works have begun on site, with construction expected to be completed by 2025.

An Bord Pleanála granted a Railway Order with conditions to Córas Iompair Éireann for the double-tracking of the Glounthaune to Midleton line in October 2023. Procurement preparations have started following this approval and a contract award is expected later this year, prior to construction commencing.

In addition to the Kent Station and double-tracking works above, Iarnród Éireann awarded a contract to Alstom for a major signalling upgrade project on the Cork commuter rail network in June 2023. This signalling upgrade is required to increase the number of trains which can operate between Cork and Cobh, Midleton and Mallow.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the Cork Area Commuter Rail programme.

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