SDLP Infrastructure Spokesperson and West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan has called for improvements to rail services that provide for the introduction of a direct Derry – Dublin rail service while connecting all of the North’s major airports to rail links.
Speaking during a debate in the Assembly today, he said: “Rail infrastructure continues to be one of the most under appreciated and underdeveloped transport solutions in the North of Ireland.
“Apart from the lack of amenity afforded to people in communities across the region, the severe lack of road and rail infrastructure has contributed in a significant way to decades of underinvestment and stagnation outside Belfast and particularly west of the Bann.
“Ireland continues to be one of the only countries in Europe with no high quality rail link to or between its major airports.
“That puts us at a competitive disadvantage when foreign businesses look at regional connectivity.
“We have the ability to connect our three major airports – Belfast City, Belfast International and City of Derry – with rail links.
“But more than that, restoring the mothballed Antrim Line offers the potential for a direct line from Derry – Dublin which would open up the North West to new tourism and business opportunities.
“Despite it’s inoperative status, the Executive has spent £1.5m on ‘essential track safety works’ since 2013 for a rail line that’s full of potential but remains closed. It’s an utter scandal.
“The Executive needs to think bigger. Advancing North/South integration, connecting our major regional airports and opening the North West to new tourism and business opportunities are within our grasp.
“The Minister must act and finally begin to build a transport network around people’s lives,” he added.
