Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 May 2023
242. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport if the Wexford-Waterford rail line will be in operation in time for Fleadh Cheoil 2024 to give passengers from Waterford, Cork, Limerick, and Galway a direct sustainable transport option to attend the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22978/23]
View answer244. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide a timeline for repair and when the bridge will be operational again for the Barrow Bridge on the Wexford-Waterford railway, the costings related to the repair of the bridge, as the Barrow Bridge on the Wexford-Waterford railway line has been out of service since 2022 due to a bridge strike while awaiting repair pending the outcome of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22980/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 242 and 244 together.
As the Deputy may be aware, as Minister for Transport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The maintenance of the rail network, including closed lines such as the Wexford to Waterford line, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance.
In relation to the Barrow Bridge, officials in my Department have engaged with Iarnród Éireann in relation to the bridge strike at Barrow Bridge, short-term remedial actions to ensure safety, and the longer-term repair works required.
Noting Iarnród Éireann's responsibility in the matter in the first instance, I have referred the Deputy's questions to IÉ for a more detailed reply on the specific issues raised. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
