asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware that many accommodation crossings on the Córas Iompair Éireann rail system are not wide enough to permit the passage of modern farm machinery and other vehicles and are thereby preventing free access to farmers from one part of their farm to the other; and, if so, whether Córas Iompair Éireann will facilitate landowners in having these crossings widened.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Widening of Railway Accommodation Crossings.
34.
I am informed by C.I.E. that they have no legal obligation in regard to the widening of accommodation crossings. Nevertheless, on application being made by a landowner the Board are prepared to agree to the widening of an accommodation crossing on his land subject to the condition that the work is carried out by the Board's staff at the expenses of the landowner and subject to the landowner entering into an agreement with the Board indemnifying the Board against all claims in regard to accidents arising out of the use of the crossings when widened.
Is the Minister aware that one of the conditions attached to the agreement where any landowner wants to widen his gate is that first and foremost he must take out insurance up to £30,000 with a premium of £1 10s. forever, not on the tenant but for all future generations?
C.I.E. no longer require that.
I am glad to know that but I have some cases in North Tipperary and I was informed quite recently—within the last fortnight— that this agreement must be signed by the people who wish to widen the gates going into their farms.
The Deputy should inquire again.