Written answer
Rail Network
Funding and a construction date for Blarney/Stoneview remain unconfirmed; it is included in Phase 2, with a Railway Order application expected in late 2026 or early 2027.
310. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 368 of 10 February 2026, whether funding has been approved in principle or allocated for the proposed Blarney or Stoneview rail station, as distinct from its inclusion in the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy 2040; and the indicative year in which the station is expected to enter construction. [65446/26]
Comment on this
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
Pending this more detailed response, the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme is a key project in the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy 2040. Phase 1 of the Programme consists of a signalling upgrade, construction of a through-platform at Kent Station, and double-tracking from Glounthaune to Midleton. This phase has received EU funding of €164m through the Recovery and Resilience Facility and is expected to be substantially complete this year ahead of full commissioning in late 2027 or early 2028. The through-platform at Kent Station is already operational, opening in April 2025.
Phase 2 will deliver a new depot to support an electrified and expanded fleet for the Cork network, together with up to eight new stations, including the proposed station at Blarney/Stoneview. The second round of Public Consultation on Phase 2 of the programme concluded in June 2026. This Public Consultation process will play an important role in informing the development of the project.
Engagement with stakeholders during this consultation process will inform the project and, subject to receiving the relevant approvals, a Railway Order Application is expected to be submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála in late 2026 or early 2027.
In advance of submitting this Railway Order, a planning application for Dunkettle station has been submitted to Cork City Council and last week planning permission was granted by Cork City Council for a new station at Blackpool.