§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the independent review of Northern Ireland railways, which was published on Tuesday 28 March; and if he will make a statement. [119563]
§ Mr. IngramThe Government welcome the publication of the strategic safety review of Northern Ireland Railways. The extensive recommendations cover all aspects of the operation of the system and the Government are considering, with Translink, how best to target developments. A high level task force has been created to report as soon as possible on the options for the future of the railways in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what measures the Government will adopt to improve the railway service in Northern Ireland. [119562]
§ Mr. IngramA task force has been established that will identify, within the wider strategic context of the future development of transportation in Northern Ireland, a range of options for the future of the railway network. It will look at the costs, benefits and affordability of these options. The task force is expected to present its assessment by the summer. The future level of funding for the railway system in Northern Ireland will be considered as part of the 2000 Spending Review.