People Before Profit says it welcomes All-Ireland Rail Strategy but questions omissions from the recently published report.
Derry PBP Councillor Shaun Harkin said: “This All-Ireland Rail Strategy outlines an ambitious vision for the development of the rail system across the island of Ireland, aligning with net carbon zero commitments in both jurisdictions.
“We commend the tireless efforts of Eamonn McCann and the rail lobby group Into the West.
“We doubt we’d be at this point without campaigners across the island.
“If the proposed recommendations are enacted it would tremendously enhance rail connectivity for Derry.
“Reopening the Derry to Portadown line via Strabane, Omagh and Dungannon for a direct connection with Dublin is to be fully welcomed.
“As is connecting Derry to Letterkenny and Limavady.
“However, we must seriously question the caveat regarding whether or not Derry’s rail service would be upgraded to 200km/hr as proposed for all other “core” cities on the island.
“Derry, it should be pointed out, was excluded for the top speed in the first draft.
“Do Ministers O’Dowd and Ryan not think Derry is a core city worthy of the fastest speeds made available to other core cities?
“Aside from Letterkenny, all of Donegal will remain isolated from rail connections. In our opinion, the Sligo to Derry link is a must.
“Not taking the opportunity to fully integrate Donegal and the entire North West is a mistake.
“It’s also a source of frustration for all of Fermanagh to be excluded, despite passionate campaigning.
“Similarly, Cookstown and Magherafelt are obvious places for new stops but have been ignored.
“We are in agreement with others that the danger with this review is that it will focus resources on areas where strong rail links already exist.
“For example, the basic upgrade of the Derry to Coleraine line has been beset with delay after delay for well over a decade.
“And now Infrastructure Minister O’Dowd has further delayed Phase 3 until 2027. The lack of urgency in addressing regional disparity is plain to see.
“Adequate transport and connectivity are essential for boosting local economies, creating jobs, and fostering growth.
“People Before Profit will continue to fight for the full upgrade of the Derry to Coleraine line and for greater rail connectivity throughout the North West.
“Campaigning will be needed going forward to ensure Stormont and the Dáil follow through on this document. It shouldn’t become yet another missed opportunity.”
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