Eoghan Kenny (Cork North-Central, Labour)
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348. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress in extending suburban rail services northward to serve areas like Blarney and Monard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59013/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy may be aware, the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme is a key aspect of the National Development Plan 2021-2030 and the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy 2040. The Programme is being delivered on a phased basis and will provide a more efficient and decarbonised rail service for the Cork area, to help facilitate population and economic growth over the coming decades.

Phase 1 of the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme is currently under construction and involves a new ‘through’ platform at Kent Station, re-signalling of the network, and double tracking from Glounthaune to Midleton, with a view to these works being complete in 2026.

The new platform at Kent Station was launched at a public event on Monday 14th April.

In 2024, Iarnród Éireann awarded a contract for the design of Phase 2 of the Programme which includes proposals for eight new stations, including Blarney and Monard, a new fleet maintenance depot and full electrification of the network to support more frequent, reliable and sustainable rail transport for Cork.

A public consultation on Phase 2 of the Programme was carried out in June and July. Phase 2 will be progressed following the completion of Phase 1, subject to funding and relevant approvals.

Noting the National Transport Authority's (NTA's) responsibility in this matter and the specific issues raised by the Deputy, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.