Rail Network
Seanad Éireann — 2026-09-24
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Mark Duffy (FG), Labour Panel

I welcome the Minister of State to Seanad Éireann. I thank him for being here for this important Commencement matter. I seek an update on the delivery of phase 1 of the western rail corridor from Claremorris to Athenry. As we both know, this has the potential to reignite connectivity across the western seaboard in a low-carbon fashion, connecting students with universities and colleges in both counties and connecting people with work, tourism, medical appointments and otherwise. It is a track that has lain idle for many years. If we are to move to a sustainable mode of transport, reopening railway lines where the State has ownership is a no-brainer. I thank the Minister of State for his work to lead and drive this forward, supported by Oireachtas colleagues across the west. It is important that we demonstrate progress, expedite the project and move it forward as quickly as possible to keep momentum going and inspire other areas. I hope with the support and leadership of the Minister of State, we will hear some positive updates today.
In Mayo we have Pro Rail in Kiltimagh where Eamonn Maloney has received planning permission and is doing brilliant work with his expertise in the rail industry. We have a very active support group, West On Track, which has been an ardent supporter of the reopening of the line. There is a commitment in the national development plan to the delivery of the western rail corridor, which I welcome and support. I encourage and ask the Minister of State to use every possible bit of influence he has to help expedite and drive it on to make sure this project can be realised as soon as possible to deliver for the people of the west.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/seanad/2026-09-24/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-09-28T05:50:50+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-09-24