Cavan and Monaghan could be reconnected to the national rail network for the first time in decades. That's according to Transport Minister, Eamon Ryan, who has been discussing proposals in the new All-Island Rail Review which is set to be published at the end of this month.
Speaking to Northern Sound, local Fianna Fáil TD, Deputy Niamh Smyth highlighted the "desire" that exists between Iarnród Éireann and the Department of Transport to bring the plan to fruition.
She says it's imperative that Cavan and Monaghan are included in the All-Island Rail Review given that the core infrastructure is already in place across the area. Deputy Smyth added that a local rail system would be "integral" to climate action and to rural economic development across the Northern Sound region.
"Having worked hard and had numerous meetings with Jim Meade in Iarnród Éireann and with Eamonn Ryan to see this happen, this is not some pipe-dream or ambition that may not ever materialise. If there is a will there, then the desire is there to do these things.
"I know that both Cavan and Monaghan county councils have been so progressive in doing things for the betterment of the county. And, I know that they have also looked at how they can improve public transport, not just for their own staff, but also for the people living in the areas," said Deputy Smyth.
