asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether he is aware that Córas Iompair Éireann commenced dismantling railway sidings and other buildings in the West Cork railway system prior to the expiry of the required two months' statutory notice; and, if so, if he will make a detailed statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dismantling of West Cork Railway Sidings and Buildings.
19.
I am informed by C.I.E. that certain unused sidings are being dismantled to make way for cattle pens. These sidings would have been removed sooner or later even if the railway were continued.
I am satisfied that C.I.E. are taking no measures contrary to the relevant provisions of the Transport Act, 1958.
It is expressly stated in the Transport Act, which the Minister states gave C.I.E. this function, that until the expiration of two months' statutory notice, no railway could be dismantled or service withdrawn. Having regard to that fact, is the Minister not now aware that, immediately after this statutory notice was submitted to the newspapers, C.I.E. commenced dismantling work on the West Cork railway?
I have already given the Deputy my reply.
Does the Minister appreciate that his reply is untruthful?
Is the Minister aware that the two months' statutory notice to which advertence has been made was provided for under the Act, and that an assurance was given by the then Minister for Industry and Commerce, now the Taoiseach, that the period would be availed of to permit consultations between interested parties and the Board of C.I.E. in relation to proposed closures, and that now in relation to the closure of the West Cork railway, the Board of C.I.E. have not given any opportunity of any consultations whatever to interested parties?
That is an argument, not a question.
That does not arise.