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Varadkar announces €1m for train stations

Transport Minister Leo Varadkar today announced a €1 million fund to spruce up train stations. Making the announcment at the Iarnród Éireann Annual Best Station Awards, the Minister said it would stimulate job creation and encourage more people to use public transport...

Encouraging more people to use public transport is a priority for this Government. Passenger numbers are likely to be boosted by making sure that stations are attractive and clean, with appropriate signage and information.

The refurbishment works will be co-ordinated by the National Transport Authority (NTA). Irish Rail and the NTA have already begun to identify the individual stations for inclusion in the programme, and to set out the exact work package for each station.

Assuming an average spend of €50,000 per station, around 20 stations could be significantly enhanced before the end of 2011.

Most stations do not require a major refurbishment. Instead, low-cost efforts can make a big difference, like re-painting, removing graffiti, replacing broken items, landscaping, or a general facelift.

Read the full press release here.