Sean, all the sets in the country so are are 3-car sets, so it will probably be some months before 1st class/dining car are even physically possible. Expect another few months to get them certified when they do arrive. Apparently at least one 6-car set is ear marked for the Sligo line, but I wouldn't be at all surprised if it's 2009 before it enters service.
Keith, the road journey to Sligo is still not great, and you have to contend with the Lucan N4/M50 madness at the Dublin end, so the train still has an advantage. That's why numbers are up despite the poor rolling stock.
On the Roslare line, the M11 has been getting better and better. Combine that with the poor train service, and it's not surprising people have been turning away from the train. Will the 22K be enough to attract them back? Tricky question. Perhaps the current upgrades with the new stock and more frequent services will make it more attractive, but it's going to be a harder battle for the train.
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