Dublin Chamber has welcomed today’s announcement by the First Minister, deputy First Minister, Taoiseach and Tánaiste confirming the signing of the landmark agreement for a new Belfast-Dublin Enterprise fleet by Ministers Liz Kimmins and Darragh O’Brien.
The investment represents a significant milestone in the future of all-island connectivity and demonstrates a strong commitment by both governments to delivering modern, sustainable and high-capacity transport infrastructure along one of the island’s most important economic corridors.
Speaking following the announcement, Dublin Chamber CEO Mary Rose Burke said: “Today’s agreement is a major step forward for the future of connectivity on the island of Ireland. A faster, more reliable and more sustainable Enterprise service between Dublin and Belfast will strengthen economic ties, support tourism and enhance regional competitiveness across the island. An advocate for enhanced rail connectivity between Dublin and Belfast, Dublin Chamber has consistently highlighted the strategic importance of investing in modern transport infrastructure that supports economic growth, decarbonisation and balanced regional development.”
Dublin Chamber noted that improved rail connectivity remains a central objective of the Tri-Region Partnership between Dublin Chamber, Cork Chamber and Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which was established to strengthen all-island economic collaboration and connectivity. The partnership has identified higher-speed rail links between Cork, Dublin and Belfast as a critical infrastructure priority to support trade, talent mobility and sustainable growth across the island.
“The Enterprise corridor is of strategic importance to the island’s economy. Continued investment in this route has the potential to transform connectivity between our largest urban centres, creating stronger links for businesses, employees, students and visitors alike. Through the Tri-Region Partnership, Dublin Chamber has worked closely with our counterparts in Cork and Northern Ireland to advocate for ambitious investment in all-island connectivity, including higher-speed rail infrastructure connecting Cork, Dublin and Belfast. Today’s announcement is a welcome and tangible demonstration of that ambition becoming reality.”
Dublin Chamber also welcomed the broader commitment to improving journey times, passenger experience and sustainability outcomes on the Belfast-Dublin route, noting the important role rail investment will play in supporting climate targets and reducing dependency on private car travel.
“Efficient and reliable transport infrastructure is essential to maintaining Ireland’s competitiveness and supporting continued economic growth. Investments such as this help future-proof our economy while delivering meaningful benefits. Dublin Chamber looks forward to continued collaboration with governments North and South, transport agencies and business stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of enhanced all-island connectivity.”
ENDS
Contact Information
Stephen Browne
Head of Public Affairs
Dublin Chamber
085 710 3329
stephen@dublinchamber.ie
About Dublin Chamber: Dublin Chamber is Ireland’s largest chamber of commerce with over 1000 member companies. It is the most representative and broadly-based business group in the Greater Dublin Area, providing representation and networking services. Its policy work focuses on developing the Dublin region’s infrastructure & transport, promoting competitiveness, and improving local governance. Dublin Chamber is also one of the oldest chambers of commerce in the world, tracing its origins back to 1782.