'Huge potential of All Island Rail Review cannot be wasted'

A local MLA has said that the "huge potential of the All Island Rail Review cannot be wasted".

Mark H Durkan, SDLP Fairer Infrastructure spokesperson welcomed confirmation the Review's draft report would be published later this month.  

It is expected that the review, commissioned by prior Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon (SDLP), will recommend rail links to airports across the North as well as connections to Donegal. 

Mr Durkan said: "I’m glad to see movement on the long overdue expansion of the rail network and development of cross border links, especially in areas along the North West with historically poor infrastructure. 

“The recommendations set out in the report are ambitious but in the current climate, this is exactly the direction of travel we need to be seeing in terms of harnessing the potential of public transport and improving connections between communities. 

“The delivery of a rail network fit for a modern society will go a long way in addressing regional imbalance and will be critical in the fight back against climate change but making it easier for people to leave their vehicles at home. The focus on cross border services and connections with our airport presents huge potential for growing an all-island economy, attracting investment and promoting tourism. 

“Implementation of these recommendations is contingent on the restoration of an Executive. The future of rail is inextricably linked with progress on this island, the huge untapped potential cannot be wasted.”