asked the Minister for External Affairs if he will state whether he is aware that travellers between Holyhead and Dun Laoghaire complain of suffering severe hardship at Holyhead by reason of being exposed for long periods at night on Holyhead pier between the time of leaving the train and of being allowed to go on board; and if he will endeavour to have the matters complained remedied.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Travel Facilities at Holyhead.
The matters referred to by the Deputy were discussed recently with the British representative here. I am informed that steps have been taken to expedite the passport examination at Holyhead, and that a suitable heated shelter has now been provided for the accommodation of passengers while the examination is being carried out.
Will the Taoiseach take into consideration that the delays that are taking place there, in very bad circumstances, are of such length that there must be something else, even besides the passport examination, at the back of it? In any further communication that he has with the British authorities on the matter, will the Taoiseach see that any other matters that are holding up the transhipment of passengers will be removed also?
I am not aware of any other causes of delay, but perhaps there may be something in what the Deputy has suggested and I will have inquiries made.
Delays of two and three hours, and longer in some cases, have taken place.
Probably because of the large numbers travelling, and relatively small staff.