All-island rail review "A transformative vision for the Island of Ireland" - Senator O'Hara

Green Party NI leader, Senator Mal O'Hara

The long-awaited publication of the All-Island Rail Review has brought with it a transformative vision for the Island of Ireland. Nearly 700km of new rail infrastructure bringing another 700,00 people to within distance of a train station is an incredible prospect for everyone on the Island. Major Northern Irish towns like Strabane, Omagh and Dungannon are to be reconnected and on to the wider network. The islands major airports in Belfast, Dublin and Shannon will all be connected. This is a win for everyone on the island, for the people, for the planet and for businesses with 2011 projections estimating over £17Billion in economic benefits to the Island.

The leadership of Minister Eamon Ryan in spearheading this plan cannot be understated. Since 2020 he has put accessible, sustainable public transport at the centre of his programme. Shifting the dial to 2/3 of spending going to public transport rather than private car focused infrastructure is proving transformative. I sincerely hope the Northern Ireland Executive can also be as brave in prioritising rail transport over the coming years.

ENDS 

Press enquiries - Mal O'Hara on 07540790663