However, Network Rail's chief executive, Iain Coucher, said the company was now able to name the date when the process would end.

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Mr Coucher said there were signs of stabilisation in the Irish economy, with modest growth in economic output and a levelling off of unemployment.

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After receiving the fine in February, NR chief executive Iain Coucher said his company had put "military-style" command posts in place, and pledged the delays suffered by passengers over New Year would not be repeated.

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