Egis, a construction engineering and operations business headquartered in France, has just entered into an agreement with Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) to undertake the modernization of Cork’s Signalling, Electrical, and Telecommunications (SET) systems.
There is an expectation that the revitalized system will facilitate a significant enhancement of the transportation network in the vicinity of Cork city, thereby promoting a shift in transportation mode from automobiles to trains.
The aforementioned upgrades are key components of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS) for the year 2040. The enhancement of signalling and communications systems holds significant importance for rail operators aiming to augment both frequency and capacity. In addition to the enhancement of infrastructure, the CMATS initiative will facilitate the provision of additional rolling stock, the establishment of new stations, and the development of Park and Ride interchanges.
Egis will also be assigned the responsibility of enhancing the system’s reliability, which is deemed as another key measure towards the modernization of the urban commuter network.
The significance of the commuter train network in Cork was emphasized by Ireland’s Finance Minister, Michael McGrath TD, who acknowledged its importance as the country’s ‘second city’. The investment constitutes one of several planned initiatives aimed at enhancing Cork’s rail infrastructure and public transportation system.
The enhancement of Cork’s signalling system is an essential advancement aimed at facilitating the anticipated capacity and service frequency enhancements in the region. This upgrade is expected to yield significant advantages for users of the rail network.
According to AJ Cronin, the delivery manager of the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme at Iarnród Éireann, the collaboration is an integral component of Irish Rail’s overarching strategic objectives.
By collaborating with Egis, we possess a strong belief in their ability to successfully execute this project that will bring about significant changes, enhancing our rail services and aligning with our strategic objective of achieving sustainable growth. The speaker expressed anticipation for the favorable transformations that this collaboration will bring to our community, thereby establishing rail as the preferred mode of transportation. This comment was made in a formal declaration.
Egis leverages its extensive 50-year history of international experience to contribute to the project. Additionally, the recent acquisition of JB Barry & Partners, a Cork-based engineering business, enhances Egis’ local knowledge and expertise.
According to Andrew Doyle, the Operation Director of Egis Ireland, the proposed upgrades aim to enhance the railway experience in the region by improving service dependability, frequency, and capacity. We are pleased that Iarnród Éireann has chosen to entrust us with this significant project.