O’SULLIVAN CALLS FOR SHANNON RAIL LINK OPTION TO BE RECONSIDERED
Issued : Monday 12 April, 2010
Limerick City, Labour Deputy Jan O’Sullivan, has today called on the Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey T.D. and Iarnrod Eireann to re-examine recent feasibility reports completed regarding linking Shannon Airport to the Limerick Galway rail network.
The news that additional train services are now been added to the Limerick Galway line proves the fact that once facilities and services are put in place the general public will avail of them.
There was considerable scepticism when Iarnrod Eireann opened the Limerick to Ennis line a few years ago and also a few doubters when this line extended to Galway recently.
Shannon International Airport is a critical piece of infrastructure for the Mid-West and with existing airline companies reducing their flight schedules resulting in significant decreases in passenger numbers connecting the airport to the national rail network would increase its attractiveness for potential passengers.
Shannon Industrial Estate is one of the largest industrial estates outside Dublin with many international companies employing thousands of workers. Like any other international airports that have an efficient public transport system in operation people will be less inclined to travel by car thereby reducing congestion on our roads and improving our environment.
With petrol and diesel costs continuing to increase people are now looking for alternative options for travelling. I have supported the case made by the Shannon Rail Partnership for many years to connect the airport by rail and a commitment by Minister Dempsey to provide the necessary resources would be a welcome and timely boost to Shannon Airport.
