Among his chief concerns are the progression of the Metro North line and a third terminal at Dublin Airport.

Minister Ross and his junior minister, Patrick O'Donovan, have set a series of targets in the areas of transport, aviation, maritime, tourism and sport for the next three years. 

Among the priorities is a full review of public transport policy "to ensure services are sustainable into the future and are meeting the needs of a modern economy."

They also said the Government will "provide for an independent costing and review of the Western Rail Corridor Phase Two between Athenry and Claremorris for passenger and freight use.

"No measures will be taken to prevent the future reactivation of this corridor for rail use, as set out in the McCann Report," the strategy said."

Mr Ross said in terms of Dublin Airport he wants to ensure the development of a new runway by 2020. He also wants to accelerate plans for the delivery of a new terminal.

Speaking about rural Ireland, the minister said to prioritise key radial routes to ensure communities are not isolated by inadequate national primary roads.