Before jumping to the conclusion that it is a waste of money you have to ask the 5 whys? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5_Whys
Why does it take 2hrs to get to limerick? Why are there no commuter trains to Galway? Why does it cost 11 euro? Irish Rail have no incentive to make it work. Why are we the only country in Europe that shut down its commercial rail shipping – surely the most efficient way to transport stuff?

Same goes for the Galway outer bypass… Why is Galway congested? Why does everyone drive to school? Why is there no bus service running from Knocknacarra to the Industrial Estates?

A dual carriageway from Galway to Derry would be better. That side of the country badly needs access. One of the most beautiful parts but poor access.

I live in Athenry. I’m sorry to say that Bruce is probably right that it was a crazy idea, especially seeing as how the Limerick-Galway motorway is almost complete.

There is a lot of Athenry to Galway traffic so the ‘commuterization’ of that route is badly needed, as is the station at Oranmore.

However, the thing is built now so giving it a good chance is worthwhile.

I do wonder if a rail-link to Shannon would make it more successful.

Ireland needs to seriously improve its railway network. I see no reason why the western corridor isn’t connected by train. The bus from Cork-Galway is so uncomfortable and takes so long. And the intercity train fares are outrageous, 71€ return Dublin-Cork? It’s 72.50€ from Paris to London!

There is a lot of incompetence from Irish Rail in all of this.

For example, in Athenry we currently have commuter service level of train frequency, with a few trains that go only to and from Athenry and Galway, but we are still paying €11 return from the station. They say that a commuter price structure will be introduced when the Oranmore station opens but have not said what it will be.

Ditch this and put a cycle path in its place. Wouldn’t cost much and promote tourism.

Hopefully it will never be done. The galway to limerick line was a crazy idea. It takes two hours. You drive it in one hour. Always has free travel and sociall welfare recipients. Rarely has a fare paying customer. Stop the madness now. However I fear muppets kenny and ring will push the plan to satisfy local parish pump politics.

Iarnroid eireann like most of the public service could not organise a piss up in a brewery. Just bring in private sector management and run it more efficiently and provide a viable, sustainable service. I never use Irish trains mainly because of the price. Wouldn’t mind a job with them though. 80 grand plus and a huge pension and perks for driving the train in a straight line.

Ah sure, it’s the west! As long as every street in Dublin has a luas line, we should all be happy. Right? :S
(For those not awake enough yet, that was sarcasm)