Irish Railcar Gricers Association
The IRGA was formed in 2007 for people following the growing multiple unit scene here in Ireland. Over the last 10 years DMUs have started replacing the traditional locomotive hauled train on Irish Rail. 2600,2700,2800 and 29000 class units have now completly replaced locomotive hauled trains on all of Dublin and Cork Commuter services. In July 2004 the first Intercity service (Dublin to Rosslare) went over to DMU operation when 2700 class units replaced 071 class locomotives and MK2 coaching stock. 2800 class units now operate the Rosslare Intercity service as the 2700 class units moved to the Cork and Limerick areas to work the regional services replacing the steam heated Cravens coaching stock.Most Dublin to Sligo Intercity services went over to units in 2006 when the 29000 class replaced the MK2 coaching stock on that route. With the order for the 22000 class units all Intercity services with the exeption of the Cork and Belfast route will soon become unit operated.
Anyone wanting to keep up with the latest news should check out the IRGA web site. The group also operates outings and recently operated its first railtour.
http://irishrailcargricersassociation.yuku.com/directory
Irish Traction Group
The Irish Traction Group (ITG) was formed on the 4th June 1989 with the objective of preserving at least one example of each class of diesel locomotive to have operated on the Irish railway system. The ultimate aim of the Group is to restore its collection of locomotives to full operational condition. The ITG specifically caters for the modern traction enthusiast, providing up to date news of events and workings on the railway system via its quarterly journal "The Irish Mail". The ITG owns the largest number of privately owned diesel locomotives in Ireland and operates railtours in Ireland at least twice a year.
http://www.irishtractiongroup.com/
Railway Preservation Society 0f Ireland
The RPSI was formed in 1964 to preserve in working order steam locomotives and other rolling stock built for the Irish railway system, from 1850 to the present day.
The RPSI maintains a museum at Whitehead and operates steam hauled charters over the present day Irish railway network for families and enthusiasts. The Society is a not for profit organisation managed by volunteers. All funds from ticket sales, shop sales, membership fees or donations go directly to keeping Ireland's steam railway heritage operating for future generations.
http://www.rpsi-online.org/
Downpatrick & County Down Railway
The Downpatrick & County Down Railway (DCDR) was set up in 1985 with the aim of restoring a portion of the former Belfast and County Down Railway as a working railway museum, incorporating the various aspects of Ireland's railway heritage. The railway project is, to date, the only Irish Standard Gauge railway restoration project ever undertaken in Ireland.
www.downrail.co.uk/
The Wanderers Irishrailways photopic site
One of Irelands best railway photopic sites.
http://thewanderersirishrailphotospot.fotopic.net/
Irish Railway News
News, views and informed analysis of the Irish railway network.
http://www.irishrailwaynews.com/
