East Cork Rail Alliance (ECRA) – Bring Back the Youghal Railway – Our Community Campaign

Why are we doing this?
Reopening the Youghal rail line isn’t just about better transport—it’s about giving East Cork and West Waterford an easier, greener link to Cork City. Less traffic in Cork and on the N25 means people spend less time stuck in cars and more time living their lives. Businesses grow, commutes shrink, and the whole community thrives.
What’s happening now?
Our campaign is strong, with over 15,000 signatures from locals who believe in this project. Bringing back the railway would:
  • Ease traffic congestion in Cork City and on the N25
  • Support more sustainable travel and cleaner air
  • Help local business, tourism, and community growth
  • Improve quality of life for everyone in the region

For more information, updates, and to join the conversation, head over to our Facebook group: East Cork Rail Alliance (ECRA). You’ll find the latest news, community stories, and ways to get involved—come add your voice!

Michael Beecher, Maurice Healy (Secretary), Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley, Liam Burke, Carmel Whitford & Gillian De LaCour.

In Support

Pat Buckley

A message from local TD Deputy Pat Buckley:
“Many Corkonians have happy memories of taking the train to Youghal on a summer day. Sadly, it’s been nearly 30 years since that route ran, but support remains strong.
Irish Rail still owns the land, and there’s space beside the new greenway for a twin-track or light rail line. If Cork to Youghal rail service is restored, it would cut carbon emissions, improve air quality, reduce congestion on the N25, and help businesses and tourism thrive.
The line isn’t in the strategic rail review yet, but it should be. I urge the Government to support reopening this historic route and make transport better for all.”
Our thank to Cllr. Eamonn Horgan for his full support to get our train back to Youghal. Eamonn has taken 14 Clipboards and is printing out the petition forms for distribution in Midleton this week, it’s gratefully appreciated by E.C.R.A. committee.

Eamonn Horgan

Liam Quaide

Conor D McGuinness

John McGuinness

Darragh O'Brien

Donnachadh O Laoghaire

Colm Burke

Rory Cocking

Noel McCarthy

James O'Connor

Add Your Voice

You can help make the return of the Youghal rail line a reality by adding your name to the growing list of supporters. Every signature counts and shows just how much our community stands behind this campaign. Sign the petition here: Reopen Train Line Cork-Midleton-Youghal and help us send a clear message that the time for action is now!

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The push to reopen the Youghal rail line is gaining real momentum, with thousands in the community showing their support. Bringing back this crucial link would mean less traffic, cleaner air, and a stronger local economy for everyone in East Cork and West Waterford. Want to know more about the movement, what’s at stake, and the latest updates? Be sure to read the full story over at the Irish Examiner: https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41685036.html