Fri. Nov 1st, 2024

Foynes rail link re-opening marks first step toward sustainable freight transport  

ByAlan White

Thursday, 10 October 2024, 18:05 , , , , ,
Jim Meade, Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann . Picture: Arthur Ellis
The Limerick to Foynes rail line is set to re-open in early 2026

The reopening of the Limerick to Foynes rail link is set to be operational in early 2026 and marks a pivotal step in Ireland’s plan to increase rail freight while reducing transport emissions in line with European climate targets. 

The €152 million project is set to reduce Ireland’s dependence on road haulage, with plans to boost goods moved by rail over 14 times by the end of the next decade.  

Ireland currently moves only 1% of its inland freight by rail, far below the European average of 18%. The European Commission’s Green Deal calls for 75% of freight to be shifted from road to rail and waterways by mid-century. 

Jim Meade, CEO of Iarnród Éireann highlighted the environmental benefits of rail freight. “Rail generates 76% fewer emissions per tonne-kilometre compared to road transport,” he said. “Reinstating the Foynes rail link is essential to creating a low-carbon freight network and reducing our reliance on road haulage. We have to decongest our roads.” 

The rail link will reconnect the port of Foynes to the national rail network, boosting the transport of bulk goods. “The environmental impact of increasing rail freight is compelling, he said, as it can help in reducing Ireland’s transport impact on the environment and air quality,” Meade said.  

Shannon Foynes Port CEO, Pat Keating welcomed the investment plan, calling it a transformative move. “The very fact that this is the first major project under Iarnród Éireann’s Rail Freight 2040 Strategy speaks volumes.”  

The idea to reestablish the Limerick to Foynes rail link dates back to the launch of their Vision 2041 Masterplan in 2013. “It’s part of a wider strategy we have to effectively transform the estuary into a major national and international logistics and renewable energy hub,” said Keating.

Pat Keating noted the importance of integrating the rail link with the Adare to Foynes road. “That’s a huge platform for future growth for the port and for the Western Seaboard.”