Sinn Féin TD for Waterford Conor D. McGuinness has said that a sharp increase in passenger numbers on the Waterford to Dublin rail line strengthens the case for urgent Government investment in faster and more frequent services.
Figures released to Deputy McGuinness by Iarnród Éireann, following a parliamentary question to the Minister for Transport, show that passenger journeys on the route rose from 1,693,369 in 2024 to 1,817,279 in 2025, an increase of almost 11%.
Deputy McGuinness said:
“The growth in demand comes at a time when commuters are calling for improvements to the frequency and speed of services.
“These figures confirm what people in Waterford already know. Demand is rising strongly, yet the service remains too slow and too limited.
“The train journey to Dublin takes more than two hours and fifteen minutes. That is increasingly uncompetitive when compared to private car travel. If Government is serious about balanced regional development, it must invest accordingly.”
“While Ministers frequently reference major infrastructure investment, the southeast continues to rank lowest in per capita Government infrastructure spending. Myself and my colleague Deputy David Cullinane have consistently criticised the ongoing delays holding back the reopening of the Waterford to Rosslare line.”
Deputy McGuinness said the focus must now turn to delivery.
“The Government should introduce a morning and evening express service from Waterford to Dublin with limited stops, bringing journey times closer to 100 minutes. This should align with the opening of the North Quays Strategic Development Zone and the new Integrated Transport Hub currently under construction.
“The All-Island Strategic Rail Review provides a clear mandate for faster, more frequent intercity connections. Waterford cannot be left behind once again.
“With passenger numbers rising year on year, the Minister for Transport must now prioritise the full development and modernisation of this line.”
Conor D. McGuinness TD 