It's been announced that Siemens will continue its rich history in Ireland with the award of a long-term rail infrastructure and maintenance framework for Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail), replacing legacy systems dating back to the 1980s.
The company will install the Siemens Trackguard Westlock computer-based interlocking (CBI) system within the National Train Control Centre in Dublin. Serving as the brain of the railway network, Westlock manages train movements more efficiently and reliably by processing information about train locations and controlling signals and points to ensure safe operations.
Once implemented, the modernised system will improve train performance for both passengers and freight services across Ireland.
Working in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann, Siemens will begin the system rollout in Dublin and extend across the national network by 2040.
Rob Morris, Joint CEO and Managing Director for Rail Infrastructure and Software, Siemens Mobility UK&I said: “I’m delighted that our century-long legacy will continue in Ireland as we embark on this journey to transform rail travel and transport.”
“Our technology will play a vital role in Iarnród Éireann’s decarbonisation goals and enhancing network connectivity."
"At its heart, this framework is about making rail travel better and more reliable for passengers, while helping freight move more efficiently across Ireland. Together with Iarnród Éireann, we're building a railway fit for Ireland's future, sustaining existing jobs but also creating new opportunities, and supporting the ambitious vision set out in Project Ireland 2040 and the All-Island Strategic Rail Review."
Éamonn Balance, Director of Infrastructure for Iarnród Éireann said: “As we work to expand our network and services, to ensure rail is the backbone of Ireland’s sustainable transport network, we will work with partners such as Siemens who share our vision of a safe, sustainable, quality rail service for our passenger and freight customers. The ambitions set out under our existing investment programme and the All-Island Strategic Rail Review are moving from planning to delivery stage, and we look forward to working with Siemens to deliver these crucial modernising works.”
Image credit: Siemens / Jason Martin CTC
