Peadar Tóibín
Question:39. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport it has come to light that the Navan to Drogheda Rail lines is closed; the reason for this and when will it reopen (details supplied). [44389/26]
View answerWednesday, 10 June 2026
Questions (39)
Written answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the provision of public transport infrastructure and services within the Greater Dublin Area. In the case of the rail network, the NTA fulfils this statutory remit in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann. Iarnród Éireann also offers commercial rail freight services through its Iarnród Éireann Freight arm.
Noting Iarnród Éireann's responsibilities in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to Iarnród Éireann for a direct, detailed response in respect of their freight business. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
In advance of this more detailed response, I note that rail freight services from Tara Mines to Dublin Port are currently suspended owing to ongoing engineering and maintenance works at Dublin Port. With the conclusion of these works expected by the end of the year, Iarnród Éireann plan to reengage with Boliden in the coming weeks regarding the future reinstatement of services.
Separately, the Deputy may wish to note that the NDP Sectoral Investment Plan published by my Department last November has allocated funding to advance the Navan Rail Line to submission of a planning application, or Railway Order. Subject to Approval Gate 1 approval, it is anticipated that a Railway Order for the project will be lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála in 2028.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.