Iarnród Éireann Celebrates Cork Rail Projects Critical Infrastructure Status

Iarnród Éireann Welcomes Critical Infrastructure Designation for Cork Rail Network

Mary Considine, Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann, has officially welcomed the Irish Government's designation of the Cork Area Commuter Rail (CACR) Programme as Critical Infrastructure. This significant recognition prioritises the project and empowers the railway operator to accelerate delivery of this transformative package.

By streamlining decision-making processes, Iarnród Éireann will now be able to deliver eight new stations and a high-capacity, high-frequency rail network more rapidly for Cork residents. Considine expressed gratitude to the Government for prioritising a project that promises improved services and a better quality of life for local communities.

The CACR Programme is a cornerstone of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS) 2040. Developed collaboratively by the National Transport Authority, Cork City and County Councils, and Transport Infrastructure Ireland, this investment aims to enhance the heavy rail network connecting Mallow, Cork, Cobh, and Midleton.

Phase 1 Progress: Advanced Works

Works on Phase 1 are well advanced, marked by the opening of the new €23 million Platform 6 at Kent Station in 2025. Funded by the European Union Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), this platform represents the first element of a programme potentially worth over €1 billion.

Phase 1 encompasses:

• The new Kent Station platform.
• The RRF-funded Glounthaune to Midleton twin-track upgrade, set for completion in 2026.
• Cork area signalling and communications upgrades, scheduled for completion in 2027.

This phase will significantly increase train service frequency on all three commuter lines: to Cobh, Midleton, and Mallow.

Environmental and Community Impact

Beyond enhancing sustainable public transport access, the project aims to alleviate road congestion. It supports a transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient society by reducing reliance on private cars and building a safer, more connected network.

Looking Ahead: Phase 2

Phase 2 includes six additional new stations, electrification works, and a new fleet maintenance depot. The project completed its second round of non-statutory public consultation in June 2026, with the Railway Order application expected by the end of that year. For further details on the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme, visit www.irishrail.ie/cacr.