50 per cent capacity increase on rail services before end of year

Irish Rail has confirmed that capacity on some services on the Dublin to Sligo line will increase significantly before the end of the year.

Responding to a Parliamentary Question from the Fianna Fáil man, chief executive Jim Meade revealed that Irish Rail has taken delivery of 41 new Intercity railcar carriages "and their deployment into the fleet is nearing completion".

"These intermediate carriages will allow for the lengthening of existing train sets, providing additional capacity on Intercity and commuter routes. A total of six services (09.05; 16.00; and 17.10 Connolly to Sligo, and the 09.05; 13.05; and 19.00 Sligo to Connolly) on the Dublin to Sligo route will see increased capacity due to this fleet deployment, which is predominantly being used on the Intercity network. These services will increase from four to six carriages.

"Please note, capacity will vary until all 41 carriages are in service, which will be by the end of this year. All these carriages have multi-purpose areas, including accessible seating on board. All Intercity trains have reserved seating for persons with mobility issues."

The news has been warmly received by Deputy Troy, who says local rail commuters have been waiting a long time for improved capacity on the busy service.

"It is very welcome news that additional train carriages have now been delivered and will be added to the Sligo to Connolly line by the end of the year. I have been advocating for additional capacity for our service to Dublin for quite some time as many commuters are left standing for the entire journey. It is also very positive news that the two extra carriages will ensure additional seating for persons with mobility. The extra two carriages will make a significant difference as it will add 50 per cent added capacity to the existing service.