Improved access to Cork railway stations ‘a priority’

Irish Rail has said that improved access at train stations across Cork is a “priority”, with the Glounthaune and Fota stations earmarked for upgrades over the coming years.

The comments come as Sinn Féin Cork East TD Pat Buckley raised concerns over the lack of accessibility at both railway stations, neither of which have lifts, stating that such a challenge is “significantly limiting” passengers who have mobility issues.

“Glounthaune station is a key park-and-ride hub for commuters travelling into Cork city, [and] this station plays a crucial role in the Cork–Cobh/Midleton rail line,” said Mr Buckley.

“With Irish Rail planning to increase services, the absence of wheelchair access to platform two prevents some passengers from using the station entirely.

“The Fota station serves as the gateway to Fota Wildlife Park — this station should be accessible to all visitors.

“However, without a lift, passengers with mobility challenges are unable to access platform two, significantly limiting their ability to visit this popular destination, as well as parents with young children in buggies,” Mr Buckley added.

“I have raised this matter with both the minister for transport and Irish Rail, and encouraged them to install lifts at these stations as a matter of urgency, as it would greatly enhance accessibility and encourage more people to use rail transport.

“Improving accessibility at Glounthaune and Fota stations would ensure a more inclusive rail network for all passengers.”

A spokesperson for Irish Rail told The Echo that the organisation is continuously working to “enhance accessibility” at stations across Cork.

“Both Glounthaune and Fota stations are in our priority programme for accessibility upgrades,” the spokesperson said.

“Works to facilitate a new bridge, incorporating lifts at Glounthaune, require a foreshore licence from the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA), prior to proceeding to planning, and this application has been made to MARA and we are awaiting a response.

“A pre-planning application has been made to the local authority regarding a new bridge incorporating lifts at Fota, and we expect to submit a full planning application in 2026.

“We have already completed works on a new bridge with lifts on this line at Little Island station, which opened last year,” the spokesperson said.