asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has sanctioned the closing down of many branch railway lines by Córas Iompair Éireann; if so, if he will consider the desirability of requesting Córas Iompair Éireann to convert the permanent ways lying idle so as to make them suitable for road transport vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Sanction has not been given for the permanent closing of any branch railway line since 1940.