The Government is being urged to "fast-track" an infrastructure project in the west of Ireland after a report reveled the new Athenry to Ennis section of the Western Rail Corridor carried 102,000 passengers in 2015.

The report by Cicero Communications also found that overall the Galway -Limerick route carried more than 300,000 passengers in 2015.

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Sinn Féin MEP Matt Carthy said: "It is clear that passenger numbers on the Galway-Limerick route are growing faster rate than on any other route in the state.

"The figures compare very favourably with primary routes such as the Dublin–Belfast Enterprise service.

"I believe the Western Rail Corridor is a key element of infrastructure for the West of Ireland.

"The latest report is proof positive of the success of Galway-Limerick rail service."

(CD/MH)