New Stamps Track Dublin - Belfast Railway Anniversary

5 April 2005

Dublin April 5th, 2005: The 150th anniversary of the completion of the Dublin – Belfast Railway Line is marked by An Post today with the issue of four new postage stamps designed by Irish artist, Vincent Killowry.

Prior to the opening of the spectacular viaduct over the River Boyne at Drogheda in 1855, separate railway lines linked Belfast to Lisburn and Dublin to Drogheda. A common gauge of 5ft 3ins was agreed on so that work could begin on the linking track. The line opened in stages between 1849 and 1855, providing quick and comfortable transport– by the standards of the day – between Ireland’s two largest cities.

Modern-day Enterprise trains are capable of speeds of 145 kilometres per hour and now complete the journey in just over two hours.

An Post’s colourful new stamps detail several events in the life of the railway line: An early Enterprise steam train puffing gently into Connolly Station, Dublin and a modern-day Enterprise whisking passengers through the Irish countryside (both 48c); Crossing the spectacular Boyne Valley Viaduct (60c) and leaving Central Station, Belfast (65c).

Several special products are also available for this stamp issue including a First Day Cover, a mini-sheet and a set of limited edition prints signed by the artist. They may be viewed or purchased at the GPO Philatelic Shop, Dublin, at main post offices and on-line at www.irishstamps.ie