To ask the Minister for Regional Development to detail any investigations into the possible electrification of the Larne Railway line, which would provide for faster, cleaner and more efficient rail journeys for the people of East Antrim.

The question of electrification is linked to rolling stock usage and procurement. Electrification will therefore always be most cost effective when it coincides with a natural requirement for fleet replacement. Translink’s current inter urban fleet is relatively new, with the first C3K train sets coming into service in 2005/06. These train sets have an expected operating life of approximately 30 years.

The Railway Investment Prioritisation Strategy which I published last year setting out the strategic direction for future railways investment over the next 20 years does not envisage electrification of any part of the Northern Ireland network within its timeframe.

However I recognise the efficiency and environmental benefits which a move to electrification could bring and the strategy expects that investment in priority projects will make provision for eventual electrification in the longer term.