asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware of the failure of Coras Iompair Éireann to give two months' notice in Iris Oifigiúil as required by Section 19 (3) of the Transport Act, 1958 in respect of the discontinuance of certain railway services and the closing of stations with effect from 13th June, 1960 on the Westland Row-Bray line; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Discontinuance of Railway Services.
16.
Mr. Ryan
I have made inquiries from C.I.E. who have informed me as follows: widespread publicity was given over a month ago, in the public Press and by pamphlet circulated to the travelling public on the Amiens Street-Bray railway line, of the Board's intention to close, as from Monday, 13th instant, certain halts on that section. Legal doubts have now been raised as to whether there is sufficient distinction in terminology between a railway station and a railway halt to ensure that the Board could properly close these halts without first giving formal statutory two months' notice in Irish Oifigiúil of its intention of so doing. In the circumstances and to put the matter beyond doubt, a service of trains will be provided at these halts for the remainder of the current summer timetable. Particulars of the services, which will come into operation will, I understand, be announced tomorrow.
Does that mean that existing services will be continued for the remainder of the summer?
It means that stations will be kept open, and that a certain number of trains will be stopping in those stations.