Rail Network

Thursday, 21 May 2026

Questions (200, 201)

Paul Lawless

Question:

200. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the extended waiting times of up to 70 minutes at Manulla Junction for passengers on the 7:28 a.m. Castlebar to Ballina service; the reason for the current timetable configuration which requires passengers to wait for the Athlone service; and if he will request Irish Rail to review this arrangement with a view to reducing delays and ensuring a fit-for-purpose peak-time commuter service. [38699/26]

View answer

Paul Lawless

Question:

201. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Transport whether an assessment was carried out regarding the impact of the introduction of the early morning Athlone rail service on existing Castlebar to Ballina passengers; if these service changes were communicated in advance to affected commuters; and if he will outline steps being taken by Irish Rail to address the negative consequences reported by daily commuters. [38700/26]

View answer

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 200 and 201 together.

As Minister of State, I have responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.

The query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.

Question No. 201 answered with Question No. 200.