A review of rail services in Ireland proposes connections to Dublin, Belfast and Shannon airports (but not Cork, Derry or Knock), journey times to be halved, higher frequency, speeds, and electrified trains and services increased as part of €37bn all-island rail plan.
The plans include new electrified railways connecting Athenry to Claremorris via Tuam, Limerick City to Shannon Airport, and Waterford to Wexford.
Commuters can expect reduced journey times and increased connectivity between cities, with some journeys potentially halving in duration.
Proposed expansion of rail coverage, including the Western rail corridor, would increase Ireland’s rail network from 2,300km to nearly 3,000km, aiming to attract more customers with improved services.
The announcement follows approval for extension of the Dart network to Maynooth and Dunshaughlin in Meath.
An additional 700,000 people would live within 5km of a train station if recommendations are delivered.
