Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 May 1947

Vol. 106 No. 4

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Reopening of Cork Railways.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will indicate when the main and branch railway lines from Cork City westwards will be opened for the conveyance of passengers.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware of the great loss and inconvenience occasioned to the residents of Baltimore and the islands of Cape Clear, Sherkin and Hare, by the absence of transport facilities for some time past on the railway line from Skibbereen to Baltimore; that Cape Clear Island is much used by students of Irish to perfect their knowledge of the language; that Sherkin Island is a noted tourist centre; and that the inhabitants of Hare Island are cut off from Skibbereen, the source of their supplies; and whether, in view of these considerations, he will direct Córas Iompair Éireann to restore the services on this line immediately.

I propose, with your permission, Sir, to take questions Nos. 2 and 3 together.

I am aware that owing to the unavoidable curtailment of rail services many areas have been deprived of their normal public transport services.

It will be possible, following a slight improvement in coal supplies, to restore a limited passenger train service on four days a week between Cork, Skibbereen and Bantry from the 24th of this month, and to provide a service on one day a week between Skibbereen and Baltimore as soon as the necessary arrangements can be made. I cannot say when the fuel supply position may permit of the reopening of the other railway lines in the West Cork area.

The Minister says there will be a service on one day a week between Skibbereen and Baltimore. Will the Minister say on what date that service will be provided?

I could not say that. It is a matter for arrangement by the railway company.

Saturday is market day in Skibbereen.

I am sure the company will endeavour to arrange the service on the most convenient day.

In regard to the branch lines that have been closed down, the Courtmacsherry line and other lines, can the Minister give any indication as to when they will be reopened?

I am not in a position at present to give an indication as to when they may be reopened.

Is the Minister aware that there are no transport facilities to Courtmacsherry at present, not even a bus? Surely there should be some transport for those districts.

Top
Share