Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 February 2026
112. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Transport the engagements he has held with CIÉ to re-establish a catering facility on the Galway-Dublin rail service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15502/26]
View answerI understand Iarnród Éireann have been working to restore catering services where possible following the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions on rail services.
The company’s Train Operations and Procurement team have been engaging with both existing providers in the market, and with operators not currently in the market. The company are asking potential suppliers to be creative and innovative in identifying solutions which will allow the resumption of catering on routes in a cost-effective manner.
However, with costs of up to four times the previous levels quoted, Iarnród Éireann have had to deliver the service on a limited basis, within available funding. A full tender process was undertaken for catering services across the Intercity network within its current PSO funding. Iarnród Éireann have only been in a position to restore catering on the Dublin to Cork route on an interim basis. On-board catering is also available on the Dublin to Belfast Enterprise service, jointly operated between Iarnród Éireann and Translink, and provided under a separate contract.
The company continues to engage with the NTA and my Department on this important matter; however, as I have stated previously PSO funding must be prioritised toward the delivery of actual public transport services.
I have encouraged the NTA and Iarnród Éireann to explore avenues to support wider reintroduction of catering services to improve the customer experience on board. Iarnród Éireann will provide updates to me, my Department, and the wider public on any progress, but at this time, are unable to confirm any restoration date.
I understand people’s wish to see catering services return on all rail services; however, if there is a choice between the taxpayer funding rail services or catering services on trains then I am clear that the taxpayer’s funding is best directed toward providing rail services.
