Construction BUSINESS

Northern Ireland’s Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd has welcomed the publication of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review but is disappointed by the omission of rail connections to Fermanagh.

Ireland’s Department of Transport in Ireland the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) in Northern Ireland today published the Final Report of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review by Arup which sets out a strategic vision for the development of the rail system across the island of Ireland over the coming decades.

Welcoming the final report and its 32 recommendations, Minister O’Dowd said: “I recognise that many will be disappointed by the omission of rail connections to Fermanagh, in particular Enniskillen. I too am disappointed with this recommendation, as I am aware of the potential benefits that adequate transport and connectivity can bring to a region, by boosting local economies, and creating jobs and prosperity.

“Following the consultation period last year, I asked the consultants to review this, but they concluded that a new railway line did not appear to stimulate sufficient demand to support a rail service within the timeframe of the Review. I am committed to addressing regional imbalance whilst in office and I will continue to explore opportunities and possibilities to maximise this potential for Fermanagh.

“The development of the Regional Strategic Transport Network Transport Plan and the Fermanagh and Omagh Transport Plans offer opportunities to consider the transport needs of the people of Fermanagh and how we best meet those needs. These new plans are being developed to cover the period up to 2035 and will review transport needs on a multi-modal basis.

“These transport plans will incorporate active travel, public transport links, and new road networks, such as the A4 Enniskillen Bypass, which will begin to address the regional imbalance to the Fermanagh area. Thereby assisting an increase in tourism to the region, enhancing the case for rail to Fermanagh before, or during, the inbuilt review in 10 years’ time.

Concluding the Minister said: 

“Today opens a new chapter where we can shape a better future for everyone by decarbonising key services and investing in climate adaptation measures. Getting infrastructure right, and investing in it accordingly, can create the foundations for better rural and urban communities.”

Minister for Transport, Ireland, Eamon Ryan, stated: “This is an important day for the island of Ireland. This is not just the first All-Island Strategic Rail Review, it is the most ambitious vision for rail in a century, bringing us forward to a new age of rail. This vision has been made possible by close cooperation between the Departments and agencies north and south.

“Rail not only allows us to carry more people and freight in a more sustainable way, it is the great connector, enabling greater regional accessibility and balanced regional development. The Report provides a long-term vision and a series of recommendations for the sustainable development of the rail network on the island. I would like to see the recommendations actioned as soon as possible, and I am pleased that work is now well underway, with European Investment Bank assistance, on how we can move forward.”