Marc Ó Cathasaigh (Waterford, Green Party)
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82. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding the reopening of the Waterford to Rosslare rail line, given its inclusion in the All-Island Strategic Rail Review, and the positive potential economic impact on the south east region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39916/24]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As the Deputy may be aware, the All-Island Strategic Rail Review was undertaken in co-operation with the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland.

The Review Report sets out 32 strategic recommendations to enhance and expand the rail system in Ireland and Northern Ireland up to 2050, aligning with net carbon zero commitments in both jurisdictions. The recommendations seek to transform the quality of the rail system to the benefit of passengers and wider society on the island, through additional track capacity, electrification, increased speeds, higher service frequencies and new routes, including the reinstatement of the Waterford to Wexford line.

It should be noted that individual programmes and projects referred to within the final Review Report will be advanced subject to funding and relevant approvals, as required under the Infrastructure Guidelines in Ireland.

Assisted by the EIB Advisory Services, my Department and Department for Infrastructure, and agencies north and south, are currently working to progress the Report’s recommendations for the years ahead. Progress in following-up on the implementation of the Review will be reported on as appropriate through the North South Ministerial Council.