Pádraig O'Sullivan (Cork North-Central, Fianna Fail)
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131. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport for an update on the enhancement of commuter rail services in Cork; the estimated timeline on when the new stations at Tivoli, Blarney/Stoneview, Blackpool/Kilbarry will be constructed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63173/25]

Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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As the Deputy may be aware, the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme is a key project in 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 transport service for the area, helping to facilitate population and economic growth over the coming decades.

Phase 1 of the Programme consists of a signalling upgrade, construction of a through-platform at Kent Station, which opened in April, and double-tracking from Glounthaune to Midleton. This phase has received EU Funding under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Phase 2 of the programme plans for the electrification of the Cork commuter rail network and the delivery of up to eight new stations in the following locations: Tivoli, Dunkettle, Water Rock, Carrigtwohill West, Ballynoe, Blackpool / Kilbarry, Monard and Blarney/Stoneview, as well as the upgrade of existing stations including Mallow.

In 2024, Iarnród Éireann (IÉ) awarded a contract to TYPSA and Roughan O’Donovan appointing them as multi-disciplinary consultants for the design of Phase 2 of the Programme. This Phase provides for the new stations among other works.

The first public consultation on Phase 2 of the Programme concluded in July. Phase 2 will be progressed following the completion of Phase 1, subject to funding and relevant approvals.

Noting the 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.