In this news article, Sean Canney Independent TD for Galway East, discusses the publication of the draft strategic All-Island Rail Review.
I welcome the publication of the long-awaited All Island Strategic Rail Review, which recommends the reopening of the Western Rail Corridor north from Athenry through Tuam and onto Claremorris.
The review has many positive recommendations including increased frequency for intercity trains and the expansion of Rail Freight.
The review recommends the re-opening of the rail line from Athenry through Tuam to Claremorris which will connect Ballina, Westport, Castlebar, Claremorris, Tuam, Athenry, Ennis, Limerick to Foynes Port and Waterford Port as a Western Rail Corridor along the west of Ireland.
All-Island Rail Review
The review is the template on which all future rail development will be based, and the Western Rail Corridor is now a shovel-ready project that does not require planning permission and works can begin as soon as Government give the green light.
I am now calling on the government to follow through and provide the funding for this important infrastructure for the west of Ireland, Galway East and Tuam, in particular.
This is a positive step in the reopening of the rail line and will be of enormous benefit to Tuam and the entire region.
I along with other like-minded Oireachtas members, the Intercounty Rail Committee and West on Track have campaigned to have this line reopened.
We will continue to work to extend the line North again to Collooney from Claremorris and have rail connectivity to Knock International Airport.
Last year, I convened a meeting of Oireachtas Members and together we drafted a submission to the government in support of the Western Rail Corridor which was signed by the majority of Oireachtas members demonstrating political support for the project.
It is important that we continue to work together along with the Minister for Transport and Government to ensure the delivery of the project in the shortest time possible.
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