341. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Transport if contingency plans exist in the event of parts of the Dublin to Rosslare rail line falling in to the sea as a result of coastal erosion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61287/26]

397. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Transport if contingency plans exist in the event of parts of the Dublin to Rosslare rail line falling in to the sea as a result of coastal erosion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61376/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 341 and 397 together.

As Minister of Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure including, in consultation with Iarnród Éireann, the East Coast Railway Infrastructure Protection Projects (ECRIPP).

Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.

Pending this detailed response, I note the ECRIPP were established to provide improved coastal protection against predicted climate change effects of sea level rise and coastal erosion on the east coast railway corridor between Merrion Gates in Dublin and Wicklow Harbour. ECRIPP will deliver the necessary enhanced coastal protection to the existing railway infrastructure at key locations on this rail line. Funding is provided in the NDP to advance ECRIPP into construction.