Written question asked by Robert McCartney (United Kingdom Unionist) on Thursday, 18 November 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 29 November 1999. It was answered by George Howarth (Labour) on Monday, 29 November 1999 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what steps he is taking to improve the state of the Northern Ireland Railway's rolling stock. - Including figures.

Answer: Mr. Robert McCartney: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he is taking to improve the state of the Northern Ireland Railway's rolling stock. [99281] Mr. George Howarth: It is acknowledged that much of the NIR class 80 rolling stock is nearing the end of its useful life and will need to be replaced over the coming years. To this end the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland has been examining opportunities for a Public Private Partnership (PPP) to meet the investment needs. A report on PPP options is expected in the near future and an announcement will follow when decisions have been made on the way forward. In view of the time scales involved in bringing forward any PPP option the Department is also examining the interim funding that would be required for rolling stock replacement.

Secondary information