Offaly railway station's long-awaited second platform stays on track
Offaly TD Tony McCormack also pushes for later evening train service from Dublin to Tullamore and Clara
CONFIRMATION that the long-awaited second platform at Clara Railway Station remains part of Irish Rail's plans for the 2026–2030 period hs been welcoemd by local Fianna Fail TD Tony McCormack.
Deputy McCormack met with Barry Kenny of Irish Rail last week to discuss the proposed platform and the need for improved evening rail services for passengers travelling from Dublin to Offaly.
Speaking following the meeting, Deputy McCormack said: "I was delighted to receive positive news from Barry Kenny that the new platform at Clara remains firmly in Irish Rail's plans for the 2026 to 2030 period.
"I have been consistently pushing for progress on this project because I believe Clara deserves the investment. The second platform is an important piece of infrastructure that will help improve rail services and connectivity for the town and the wider region.
"While this is very encouraging news, I want to see the project move from planning to delivery as quickly as possible. I will continue to keep the pressure on until we see work progressing on the ground."
Deputy McCormack also used the meeting to make the case for a later evening train service from Dublin, stopping in both Tullamore and Clara.
"One of the other issues I raised with Barry was the need for a later train from Dublin. We discussed the success of the 8.30pm service that was introduced two years ago and how well it has been received by passengers.
"That service has demonstrated the demand for later connections, and I believe there is a strong case for going a step further.
"Whether it's someone working late, attending college, going to a concert, a sporting event or simply enjoying an evening in Dublin, people in Offaly should have more flexibility when it comes to getting home by train.
"Barry was very receptive to the discussion and has committed to working on the possibility of a later service. I appreciate his engagement and look forward to continuing those discussions."
Deputy McCormack said that improving rail connectivity was important for the future development of both Clara and Tullamore.
"Good transport connections make a real difference to people's lives. They open up opportunities for employment, education, business and tourism, while making our towns more attractive places to live and work.
"We have made progress, but there is more to do. My priority is to ensure that Offaly continues to benefit from investment in our rail infrastructure and services.
"I am encouraged by the outcome of last week's meeting, and I will continue working with Irish Rail to deliver the new platform in Clara and secure better evening services for passengers across Offaly."