Push for Mayo ‘game changer’ Western Rail Corridor to be in NDP

This week saw the launch of the National Development Plan and an eyewatering €102.4 billion in capital investment up to 2030.

While the numbers were big, the detail was very small and there is now a scramble to ensure that regional projects are included in the final list when it is published in October. The Department of Transport is currently drawing up its plan of where to invest its allotted €24.33 billion. 

READ MORE: Western Rail Corridor would have ‘transformative impact’ on Mayo and wider region

From a Mayo perspective, the Western Rail Corridor is a key infrastructural demand. 

The Tuam TD and Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney stated that, “as Minister with responsibility for rail, I remain firmly committed to progressing the All-Island Strategic Rail Review. It has the potential to reshape connectivity across the island and provide our regions with the long-term transport links they need to thrive.”

Westport TD Keira Keogh has called the Western Rail Corridor a “game changer” and notes that the All-Island Strategic Rail Review recommended “the reinstatement of the Western Rail Corridor, including the restoration of the Athenry-Claremorris line which would enable direct services between Mayo and Galway.”

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She highlights the commitment within The Programme for Government “to acting on the recommendations of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review, to improve connectivity across Ireland.”

The Fine Gael Deputy goes on to say that “a functioning Irish Rail line would drastically improve transport connectivity throughout the West of Ireland, from Sligo all the way down to Limerick. It would be a lifeline for regional development, and it would restore a vital link between Mayo and Galway, offering new economic, tourism and commuter opportunities. It would also ease pressure on urban housing hotspots by allowing people ease of travel from rural areas into key towns and cities.

“What we have now isn’t sufficient. If a student from Castlebar wants to commute to the University of Galway, in Mayo’s nearest city, they would have to take a train to Athlone and then another train to their final destination. That story is a familiar one for so many people across Mayo who travel to and from Galway for work or for college.”

Deputy Keogh has written to the Minister for Transport to stress the importance of this project and wants to see funding ringfenced for the Western Rail Corridor.