asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the continued closing of the Mountmellick-Portlaoighise branch railway line by Córas Iompair Éireann; if he will indicate the company's proposals, if any, for the future of this line; if he will state when it will be reopened, in view of the dissatisfaction of the public who, at present, have no connection whatever for Dublin or the South; and if, in view of the cessation of bus services, he will direct Córas Iompair Éireann to arrange for a daily passenger train from Mountmellick, to connect with any of the Dublin trains, to cater for the people of the town and of North Laoighis.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closing of Branch Line.
No application for an Order authorising the permanent closing of this branch railway line has been received by me. The rail services on a number of branch lines were discontinued on account of shortage of fuel. Córas Iompair Éireann coal stocks are substantially less than at this time last year and the company have to conserve their fuel supplies so that adequate services will be maintained for beet, grain and other essential commodities. I am informed that this line will be reopened temporarily in November to deal with certain seasonal traffics.
I appreciate that hardship is being experienced in many areas which are at present without any means of public passenger transport. The measures which the Government have taken in an effort to alleviate the position created by the present strike of bus workers have been announced.