Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 October 2024
86. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Transport when he expects delivery of the JASPERS European Investment Bank report on the potential priorities for projects under the All-Island Strategic Rail Review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40004/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, the All-Island Strategic Rail Review was undertaken by my Department in co-operation with the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland.
The Rail Review Report sets out 32 strategic recommendations to enhance and expand the rail system in Ireland and Northern Ireland up to 2050, aligning with net carbon zero commitments in both jurisdictions. The recommendations seek to transform the quality of the rail system to the benefit of passengers and wider society on the island, through additional track capacity, electrification, increased speeds, higher service frequencies and new routes.
Assisted by the EIB Advisory Services (JASPERS is a separate EIB advisory programme), my Department and the Department for Infrastructure, and agencies north and south, are working to progress the Report’s recommendations for the years ahead. This includes a more detailed identification of rail priorities to pursue over the next decade. Decisions on publication timing of this work have not yet been made. Progress in following-up on the Rail Review will be reported on as appropriate through the North South Ministerial Council.
