Taoiseach 'is supportive of light rail' in Cork

THE TAOISEACH has affirmed his support for a light rail system for Cork following concerns raised over recent comments.

The remarks had led some to believe that Leo Varadkar was dismissing the proposed Luas-style tram for Cork in favour of a Dart-type model.

However, a spokesperson for the Taoiseach told The Echo: 

“The Taoiseach was clear in his comments that he is supportive of light-rail, with the priority in the immediate and medium term for public transport in Cork being improving BusConnects and investing €185m in upgrading the existing train services, putting in new stations and improving services for commuters and visitors alike.”

At an end-of-year media briefing, Mr Varadkar was asked whether the Cork Luas project was something he would consider, if it were brought to Cabinet in 2024.

During the Taoiseach’s comments, he said that while the light-rail Luas system has “worked extremely well in Dublin”, he felt that a Dart-type model and BusConnects were the priorities for Cork.

Following the publication of his comments, Socialist Party/Solidarity TD for Cork North Central Mick Barry voiced concern.

He claimed that the Taoiseach’s comments seemed to imply a “downgrading” of the proposals to introduce a new light rail system for Cork.

“Cork needs improved bus services, improved train connections, and a light rail system,” said Mr Barry.

“The Taoiseach needs to clarify his comments and make clear that he is not implying any downgrading of plans for light rail in the city.”

In a transcript of the interview from the media briefing provided by the Taoiseach’s press office, Mr Varadkar described a light rail system for Cork as a “good idea”.

“You know, light rail has worked extremely well in Dublin, and I’d like to see more of it, and I don’t see why we can’t have it other cities too, but the priority certainly in Cork is the Cork Metropolitan Rail,” said Mr Varadkar.

“So, you’ll know that we’re double tracking to Midleton, and there’s proposals for a whole new set of stations around Cork, so I would say the priority in terms of public transport in Cork is BusConnects, it’s also the Cork Metropolitan Rail, which is upgrading the existing train service on the existing lines and putting in new stations, sort of a Cork Dart if you like, and I think that’s probably something more achievable in the medium term.”

The proposed development of a Luas-style system, set to run from Ballincollig in the west to Mahon Point in the east, is one of the biggest elements of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS).

A National Transport Authority spokesperson said work on identifying a precise route is “progressing”.

“It is anticipated that the emerging preferred route for Luas Cork will be published in the coming months,” said the spokesperson.

“Additionally, work is also under way on the Cork Area Commuter Rail project, to upgrade the suburban rail system between Cobh/Midleton and Mallow via Kent Station to deliver a more frequent commuter rail service for passengers in Cork.”