Sinn Féin commit to full reopening of Western Rail Corridor in government
A NUMBER of senior Sinn Féin representatives in the west of Ireland have gathered in front of Sligo’s MacDiarmada Train Station to pledge their support for the full reopening of the Western Rail Corridor should they be part of the next government.
MEP Chris MacManus MEP was joined by Deputies Martin Kenny, Rose Conway-Walsh, Claire Kerrane and Mairéad Farrell.
Said MEP MacManus: “We are here to give a commitment that Sinn Féin in government will reopen the Western Rail Corridor for passenger and freight services, including the section from Claremorris to Collooney which was left out of the rail review recommendations.
“As a first step we would instruct Iarnród Éireann to commence the initial planning and preparatory work to build the rail line all the way to Sligo. This commitment was included in our alternative budget for this year, is official party policy ratified at our Ard Fheis and has the full backing of our party.
“The presence of our senior west of Ireland representatives today, from every county in Connacht, is significant and demonstrates our intentions very clearly.
“We are fully committed to the entire rail line and believe that rail services could be up and running by the end of the decade if preparation begins in the near future."
Mr. MacManus continued: “Extending the rail line to Collooney will ensure that Sligo has connectivity to the rest of Connacht and every key population centre on the island by rail. It would allow for connectivity within the region to Knock airport, which can play a crucial role in its development as a major transport hub.
“It would bring huge economic opportunities to the entire northwest, ensure mobility of students and those accessing medical care, and make the region a more attractive place to live, work and do business in.
“Therefore the final version of the rail review must include protection of the Claremorris-Collooney section so that it is preserved for future use.
“The Western Rail Corridor is vital to the future of our region and it is critical that the entire rail line is reopened. The people of the west and north-west deserve no less and Sinn Féin in government will deliver to ensure that our region can prosper.”