Irish politicians have joined in the debate over completing a gap in the network which supporters say would radically alter the appeal of rail freight in Ireland. Completing the ‘Western Corridor’ would, they say, allow businesses from a wide part of Ireland direct rail access to southern ports – principally Cork and Europort Rosslare, for onward export to European and worldwide markets. Now, representative at the Irish parliament Alan Dillon, has said he welcomes news that the Irish transport minister is planning an all-Ireland strategic rail review.