Vol. 188 No. 8
andMr. McQuillan asked the Minister for Transport and Power when he expects to have a final report on the investigation into the danger to the public safety involved in the operation of the diesel-electric locomotives recently purchased for £740,000 by C.I.E. when used other than in reverse position during normal use in the public service.
20.
andMr. McQuillan asked the Minister for Transport and Power what action he has taken to initiate an inquiry into the reasons why the purchasing mission, sent by the management of C.I.E. to the U.S.A., purchased diesel-electric locomotives costing £740,000 which, contrary to specification, can only be used in reverse in normal use in the public service.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 20 together.
The survey of signals to determine their visibility from the cabs of the locomotives referred to in the Deputies' questions is proceeding and the report on the survey will be completed shortly.
These locomotives are two directional under all operational conditions. They travel cab forward and cab rear. They are being operated in both directions on shunting work and for line service they are being operated in the cab leading position, pending the results of the survey now in progress.
Can the Minister tell us is there no way of overcoming the design which makes these vehicles dangerous and unsuitable to operate— cab forward or in reverse? Does he intend to retain these engines or has he any right to return them to America?
The whole purpose of the survey is to determine the visibility of signals from the cabs, in a certain position. That survey is being carried out and as soon as it has been completed, I am sure whatever action is necessary will be taken.
Is the Minister in a position to give us any information as to when it is likely to be completed?
I said in my reply that the report on the survey will be completed shortly.
Has the Minister any idea—will it be months or weeks?
I do not know, but I would say it would be more likely to be weeks than months.
Does that survey include the use of mirrors ——
Periscopes.
——in order that a driver can see what is behind him?
Or what is behind the question.
As the Minister for Transport and Power has gone underground, he might need a periscope.
Will he be here when the survey is supplied to us?
The Minister for Transport and Power, like other Minister, does not shirk his responsibilities.
If he were here to-day, he would be asked the questions you are answering for him.
