asked the Minister for Transport and Power if Córas Iompair Éireann have reached any decision in regard to the closing of the Mountmellick-Portlaoise branch railway line; whether in view of its importance they will not close the line permanently; and if there have been any recent developments in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mountmellick-Portlaoise Railway Line.
12.
Under the Transport Act, 1958, C.I.E. is empowered to terminate any particular train service provided the Board is satisfied that its operation is uneconomic and that there is no prospect of its continued operation being economic within a reasonable period. The Act also imposed on the Board of C.I.E. the general obligation to conduct the undertaking so as to eliminate losses within a five year period.
Under the legislation I have no function in the matter which is one entirely for C.I.E. It is, of course, open to the Deputy to address his inquiries to the Board.