asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state what steps, if any, he proposes taking to implement the resolution transmitted to him recently by the West Clare Railway Committee regarding the proposal to have this line from Ennis to Kilrush and Kilkee reconstructed and widened to standard gauge.

I have received a copy of the resolution to which the Deputy refers. The proposal to widen the gauge of this line has been considered at various times, but it was clear that the heavy expenditure involved would not be warranted by the limited traffic available. I see no reason to take a different view.

Will the Minister say whether his predecessor sanctioned the closing down of this particular section of Córas Iompair Éireann.

No such thing.