asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state whether, in view of the recent statement of the general manager of Córas Iompair Éireann that it is intended to close down all branch lines of the railway service and so confine railway transport to the main long-distance lines, he is aware that such action would cause serious loss and inconvenience to traders and to the public generally; and whether, therefore, he will give an opportunity to the Dáil to discuss the matter before any such drastic action is taken.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closing of Branch Lines.
Córas Iompair Éireann cannot close any branch railway line permanently until they have first obtained an Order from the Minister for Industry and Commerce authorising them to do so. Public notice must be given in each case of the company's intention to close a line. This affords ample opportunities for representations to be made by any interested parties. No application by the company for the closing of branch lines is at present under consideration.
If any such proposals are made, will the Minister give the House an opportunity of considering them?
I have explained to the Deputy that the closing of a branch line requires an Order by the Minister for Industry and Commerce. Any administrative act of the Minister is, of course, open to debate in the House.