302. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Transport to provide a report on the provision of electric powered trains and infrastructure for Irish Rail in Cork. [2018/25]

As the Deputy may be aware, the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme is a key project in the National Development Plan 2021-2030 and the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy 2040. The Programme will provide a more efficient and decarbonised transport service for the area to help facilitate population and economic growth over the coming decades.

The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme will be delivered on a phased basis. Phase 1 of the Programme, ‘Enable future electrification of Cork Commuter Rail’, was included in Ireland’s National Recovery & Resilience Plan as submitted to the European Commission in 2021. Phase 1 works are ongoing and are scheduled to be completed by Quarter 3 2026 as required by the European Commission.

In May 2024, Iarnród Éireann (IÉ) awarded a contract to TYPSA and Roughan O’Donovan, appointing them as multi-disciplinary consultants for the design of Phase 2 of the Programme, which includes the potential electrification of the network and a new fleet maintenance depot to cater for a new electrified fleet. Subject to securing funding and achieving the relevant approvals, Phase 2 of the Programme will progress after Phase 1 works have been completed.

Noting IÉ's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to IÉ for a more detailed reply in relation to the specific issue raised. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.