Markey: ‘Have your say on all-island rail review’

MEP for Midlands-North-West Colm Markey is encouraging people to have their say on the future of rail on the island of Ireland as part of the all-island Strategic Rail Review. The Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan TD and the Minister for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland, Nichola Mallon MLA, launched a public consultation on the issue this week. The review will look at improving sustainable connectivity between the major cities, enhancing regional accessibility and supporting balanced regional development.

The Fine Gael MEP commented, “I’m calling on all stakeholders and the wider public to give their views on how rail can support and improve the social and economic opportunities in their counties. I believe this review should focus on two key areas - the Dublin-Belfast rail corridor and connectivity in the North West. Electrification of Dublin-Belfast route would not only increase speed, frequency and reduce emissions; it would also strengthen economic ties between the two cities and attract further investment along the east coast. Secondly, we’re all too aware of the lack of proper infrastructure in the North West. Connecting the region to the rest of Ireland is essential and will provide long-overdue economic opportunities and breathe life back intro rural Ireland.”

Markey, a substitute member of the European Parliament’s Transport Committee, said there is a strong focus on sustainability in the review.

"In order to achieve our climate targets, we need to reduce our emissions and encourage more use of public transport. That clearly is not an option for all but I believe that rail is the way forward. We have a unique opportunity to use rail to bring emissions down and finally connect all parts of our island. People’s views are critical when it comes to shaping the outcome of this review so I would encourage everyone to get involved and have their say before January 21.”, he concluded.