Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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245. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to examine the possibility of allowing the Foynes to Limerick rail line to be used as part of a Limerick metropolitan rail network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13613/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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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, through engagement with Iarnród Éireann, certain rail project proposals.

Works are currently underway to reinstate rail freight services between Shannon-Foynes Port and Limerick city which is scheduled to open to rail freight traffic in 2026. This project is to restore rail freight services only. Upgrading the Foynes to Limerick rail line to enable passenger services would require additional works which would be subject to funding and approval.

Separately, the National Transport Authority and Iarnród Éireann are examining the potential to create a temporary platform on the Foynes line to support the hosting of the Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in 2027.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter and the specific issue raised by the Deputy, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.

Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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246. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an update on the All-Ireland Strategic Rail Review examination of track access charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13618/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy may be aware, the All-Island Strategic Rail Review was led by my Department and the Department of Infrastructure in Northern Ireland and published in July of last year. The Review Report commits to 32 strategic recommendations over the period to 2050, including reducing track access charges for rail freight services. As Minister of Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport. Track access charges for access to the rail network are a matter for the Infrastructure Manager, Iarnród Éireann, in the first instance.

In view of Iarnród Éireann's role in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.