Waterford TD joins calls for immediate restoration of neighbouring railway platform

Iarnród Éireann does ‘not have funding at this time for restoration’ of the old long platform at Kilkenny’s train station, but it was the intention to ‘restore the protected structure of the original train shed once funding can be obtained’.

That’s according to Iarnród Éireann Chief Executive Jim Meade, who was responding to a parliamentary question from Independent TD for Waterford Matt Shanahan. Deputy Shanahan had requested that Iarnród Éireann prioritise the restoration of a platform, which was shortened 20 years ago, significantly reducing the size of train it can service.

The issue has previously been raised by Kilkenny representatives, however, the limited capacity affects other counties too.

“As everyone in Waterford will know, the train from Waterford to Dublin is always extremely busy, and it’s not good enough that there’s been such a reduction in capacity for the last 20 years due to a sale that never actually took place,” Deputy Shanahan said.

“I’ve been in contact with Iarnród Éireann about this, and they have confirmed that the ex-station structures and land remain within their ownership.”

According to Mr Meade: ‘a review of Iarnród Éireann’s Infrastructure funding levels (MAC) Multi Annual Contract 5-year plan 2025-2029 is currently being progressed with the Department of Transport’.

“I’ve asked Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan to prioritise the restoration of the platform, which really shouldn’t be an undertaking too large or expensive for them at this time,” Deputy Shanahan said.

“For the many people who travel to Kilkenny, Carlow, Dublin, etc, from Waterford, a platform extension and enhanced fleet carriages would greatly enhance capacity and, with it, comfort, efficiency and convenience.”