Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan says he plans to 'transform' rail links at Waterford, Limerick and Cork.
Two unpublished reports have ruled out opening the Western Rail Corridor for passengers between Galway and Mayo.
However the Minister wants to re-open a stretch of line between Limerick City and the deep-water port at Foynes.
Ryan says it would open the port to European opportunities.
"To get European status as a Tier 2 port, or a top-level port; you need rail-freight connectivity.
"Europe wants everyone to move as best as we can, because of our climate plans in relation to freight."
Ryan believes the link to Foynes could be done swiftly.
"It makes real sense to open the Foynes line. It's pretty much ready to go as a plan.
"Irish Rail could do it really quickly, and it makes great sense."
