Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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284. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to urgently re-examine the need for a foot bridge connecting Killarney Railway station and Killarney Bus station (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44928/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy may be aware, as Minister for Transport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport in Ireland, including in relation to the railway network.

I note that in 2019, at the request of the National Transport Authority (NTA), Iarnród Éireann undertook a review of the options available for improved connectivity between the bus station and the railway station at Killarney. That review identified that the option of a new pedestrian bridge spanning two tracks and landing on the main platform in the railway station is the preferred technical solution to link the rail and bus stations. In addition to the footbridge construction, a lift would be provided.

This alternative access arrangement would reduce the inter-station walk time to around 2 to 3 minutes.

However, there is a significant cost attached to this proposal, which was approximately estimated at between €1.5 million and €2 million in 2019. Given construction inflation in the intervening period, a cost range of between €3 million and €5 million in current values is considered more prudent.

Iarnród Éireann are committed to working across the rail network to improve accessibility at stations and interchanges, subject to the funding.

I understand that local management at Iarnród Éireann have met with you recently on this issue, and are committed to exploring what options may be available, including engaging with the owners of the adjacent retail centre, with a view to holding a meeting on the matter in the near future. I look forward to learning of the outcome of these discussions.

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