Iarnród Éireann has inherited a rich legacy of architectural, industrial and social history stretching back for more than 150 years. The company’s heritage office is responsible for the conservation of the many protected structures, artefacts and installations across the network which reflects the distinctive styles of the companies which constructed the system.

Iarnród Éireann’s heritage policy, managed by heritage officer Gregg Ryan FCILT (gregg.ryan@irishrail.ie) is geared towards preserving what is best from the past in the context of the operating railway system, engaging with community groups and enthusiast bodies, and facilitating the operation of vintage steam trains over certain routes to cater for the growing railway tourist market in association with the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland.

Several publications have also been commissioned, with proceeds going to the railway pensioners’ CIÉ Welfare Association, while the company also co-operates with professional video and DVD production for international consumption.

Celebrations on significant anniversaries associated with the railway take place regularly at venues throughout the country, and archiving of written and photographic material, together with artefacts and items of rolling stock and motive power is ongoing.

The heritage office is a division of the Corporate Affairs Department.

Useful Links

Railway Preservation Society of Ireland
Ireland's only operator of preserved mainline steam trains since 1964.

Irish Railway Record Society
The leading Irish railways historical and current affairs society, publishers of the IRRS Journal.

For a list of Irish railway reading material. Please click here.

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