asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that on several occasions during the month of August British Railways failed to provide adequate travelling facilities for some thousands of tourists with travel tickets issued and paid for in Great Britain for sea travel between Holyhead and Dublin; and, if so, if he will state the result of his investigations into the matter and his proposals to improve the position.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Holyhead-Dublin Travelling Facilities.
Mr. Byrne
At my invitation a conference of the interested parties, including British Railways, was held on the 7th September, 1951, to discuss the difficulties which had been experienced during the summer months in connection with the cross-Channel passenger traffic between Dun Laoghaire and Holyhead. There was a very full discussion as to the adequacy of the existing steamer service and the suitability of passenger handling facilities.
As a result of the meeting, I have been assured by British Railways that they have actively in hands an examination of the matter to see what improvements it may be possible for them to make in the shipping services. Consideration is being given to the provision of improved temporary passenger-handling facilities in the interval before proposals for a long term improvement scheme are developed.