The North West Regional Development Group (NWRDG) has met with the Department for Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins, to discuss rail connectivity to Derry and Donegal.

It has been described as a ‘very constructive meeting’ that allowed NWRDG members to highlight the importance of cross-border collaboration at a national and regional level.

The group said the recommendations of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review to connect both Letterkenny and Derry to the existing rail network at Portadown must be delivered delivered.

The NWRDG welcomed the Minister’s ring-fencing of £1m in 2025-26 for progressing the All-Island Rail Review proposals.

From left, Garry Martin, Director of Economic Development, Information Systems & Emergency Services at Donegal County Council, An Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Colr. Paul Canning, Karen Phillips, Director of Environment and Regeneration with Derry City and Strabane District Council ; Colr. Emma McGinley, DCSDC; Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins, Colr. Sandra Duffy , DCSDC and and chair of NWRDG; and Alderman Derek Hussey, DCSDC.

placeholder image — From left, Garry Martin, Director of Economic Development, Information Systems & Emergency Services at Donegal County Council, An Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Colr. Paul Canning, Karen Phillips, Director of Environment and Regeneration with Derry City and Strabane District Council ; Colr. Emma McGinley, DCSDC; Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins, Colr. Sandra Duffy , DCSDC and and chair of NWRDG; and Alderman Derek Hussey, DCSDC.

The group also made the case for a review of rail links along the Atlantic Economic Corridor from Derry to Letterkenny, Sligo, Galway, Limerick and Cork.

The NWRDG is a partnership of Donegal County Council and Derry City and Strabane District Council.

Ms. Kimmins also recently ring-fencing £1m for All-Island Rail Review studies to ensure momentum continues.