Peadar Tóibín
Ceist:214. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport to meet with the west Cork rail alliance to discuss the proposal to extend the rail line from Midleton to Youghal. [50374/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 2 July 2026
Ceisteanna (214)
Freagraí scríofa
The All-Island Strategic Rail Review, which was published in July 2024, 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.
A proposal to develop a line between Midleton and Waterford along the South Coast was examined as part of the Review, but ultimately this route was not included in the recommendations in the final report. Analysis undertaken as part of the Review indicated that it would likely be more cost-effective to route longer distance services between Cork and Waterford via improved railways between both cities and Limerick Junction, rather than on a new line.
One of the Review's recommendations is that the Review be updated once a decade, taking account of latest policies and developments. The potential for the Midleton and Waterford line could be reassessed at this point.
In addition to the Rail Review, the National Transport Authority (NTA) is responsible for developing and implementing the MATS to provide high quality, accessible, sustainable transport across Ireland.
The Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy was published in 2020. It was prepared by the NTA in collaboration with Cork City Council, Cork County Council and Transport Infrastructure Ireland. The NTA intends to commence a full review and update of the CMATS later in 2026. It is envisaged that the NTA will engage external specialist support, including engineering and strategic planning expertise, to assist in preparing the updated strategy.
A comprehensive stakeholder engagement programme will form a central part of the review. This will include consultation with key local and national stakeholders, local authorities, transport operators, and the wider public which will include a public consultation process. I would encourage all interested parties to participate in this important process.