asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether he is aware that travelling arrangements made by CIE during the Christmas period were very unsatisfactory for people going to the West of Ireland; that trains were overcrowded, unheated and unpunctual; and that no catering provision was made for people travelling long distances; and if he will request an explanation on the matter from CIE.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - CIE Christmas Travelling Arrangements.
62.
I am not so aware. The abnormal numbers travelling at Christmas peak times create grave problems for all public transport undertakings and some falling off in normal standards of punctuality and comfort is inevitable. I am informed by CIE that out of 98 western passenger trains operated over Christmas overcrowding occurred on 14 but that overall only 65 per cent of the accommodation provided was utilised. Heating was provided on all trains but failed on three occasions. Available catering facilities were utilised to the limit of capacity, but it was not possible to provide such facilities on eight trains in all.
Surely at this stage CIE have plenty of warning that there will be a large influx of Irish people from Britain at Christmas time? In view of the knowledge gained over the years is there any excuse for the fact that several trains for the west of Ireland, for Galway and Westport, were late in starting and late in arriving at their destination and that no announcement was made either at the point of departure or at the destination that trains would be late?
The Deputy is not asking a question.
I am asking the Minister is he aware that not alone were the trains late——
The phrase "is he aware" put into a speech does not make it less a speech.
The Minister has suggested that what is contained in the question is untrue. I am asking him if he is aware that the unpunctuality occurred in regard to a number of trains, that heating was disgraceful and that as far as overcrowding was concerned CIE had a man on the platform at Westland Row pushing people into trains as we read about in Japan. Would the Minister consider paying these people overtime now?
This is really a speech.
I am satisfied CIE do all they can at peak times of travel. Overcrowding can be found in all countries at certain periods of the year. It is inevitable. I have given the Deputy a clear picture of the general record of CIE which is, I think, reasonably satisfactory.
I should like the Minister to go down to Westland Row and see the people being pushed into the trains. It is a pity the Minister would not pay a visit there.
The remaining questions for oral answer will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.