The issue of the long-awaited phase 2 and phase 3 of the western rail corridor from Athenry to Galway and from Claremorris in Mayo must be addressed. It is absolutely critical that the economic argument for the western rail corridor, both freight and rail, is included in the all-Ireland strategic rail review report to boost sustainable connectivity and address regional imbalance. I attended a conference in Tuam on achieving regional balance. There is cross-party support throughout the entire western region for the restoration of this key infrastructure, which has lain idle for far too long. If the corridor is extended to Claremorris, it will provide a strategic objective, connecting the Port of Waterford and Shannon Foynes Port to Ballina. For that reason, the Foynes project and the Galway-Mayo link should commence without delay. The importance of opening the western rail corridor cannot be stressed enough and I hope the Tánaiste and the Cabinet are giving it serious consideration.

This issue is currently under consideration in the context of the all-island rail review. The case for extending the western rail corridor is stronger than it was in the past given that public finances are in a much better state and we are able to increase capital spending, the need to meet our climate plans, the high cost of fuel and the desire to get more freight off the roads and onto the rail lines. I know consideration is being given to a commuter to Tuam service and the possibility of freight from Athenry to Claremorris. However, we will have to see the outcome of that review before we can make any decisions at Government level.