asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether his attention has been drawn to a recent report to the effect that Ulster Transport Authority were considering closing down the section of the Belfast-Dublin railway line north of Goraghwood; whether he has any reason to believe that the Ulster Transport Authority are in fact considering this action; and whether he will take any steps which lie within his power to prevent such an action.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Belfast-Dublin Railway Line.
8.
My attention has been drawn to the report referred to by the Deputy which merely indicates that the authorities in the Six Counties propose to hold an inquiry into the position of the railways in that area. I have no reason to believe that a proposal to close the Belfast-Dublin line at Goraghwood is under considertion but I propose to keep in touch with the situation.
Does the Minister think it was just for the purpose of spending money that the U.T.A. brought over an expert from England to check on that portion of the line? Will he give us an assurance that we will not wake up one morning and find that the line has been closed, without the Minister knowing anything about it?
What is the use of getting an assurance? He will say circumstances have changed.
The London accountant who was appointed was appointed to make a general review of the whole position of the U.T.A. and not in regard to the operation of the Dublin-Belfast line. I think the reports in the newspapers were exaggerated in that regard. We are keeping in touch with the situation and the Minister of Industry and Commerce in the Six Counties is fully aware of our desire to maintain this main arterial link between Dublin and Belfast.
Is the Minister aware that certain politicians in Northern Ireland would be only too glad of an opportunity of closing that line?
That is a separate question.
Controversy on that subject will not help the matter.