To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether the full dualling of the Larne line has been considered as part of the future of the Northern Ireland railway network.

I am ambitious for our rail network and am keen to do all that I can to explore how we can progress rail improvements within the limited budgetary envelope that we have. I also want to ensure that any proposals for changes to the rail network include operational and financial viability and have a very clear focus on the part that rail can play in growing the all-island economy, improving the ability of people to connect with and access opportunities.

Since coming into office, I have been clear that my priority is addressing regional imbalance, better connecting communities and, importantly, ensuring that we shape our places around our people, for our people and with our people. Last month I was delighted to announce with Transport Minister, Eamon Ryan TD, an All Island Strategic Rail Review. This review will allow us to consider our rail network across this island to view how we can improve it for everyone. Whilst it reflects the commitment under the New Decade, New Approach agreement, Minister Ryan and I are keen that we use this opportunity to consider how we can improve our rail network across all areas of the island of Ireland. This Review will consider our rail infrastructure to Larne.

My Department is also currently preparing a new Regional Strategic Transport Network Transport Plan (RSTNTP) which will set out my priorities for future development of the main road and rail networks to 2035. I expect to publish the Draft RSTNTP for consultation towards the end of this year and I would welcome your input into improving rail infrastructure and services across Northern Ireland including Larne.