asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport why a train derailment occurred recently at Manulla, Castlebar, County Mayo; and if he is fully satisfied that in the event of any other such occurrence all necessary action will be taken immediately.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Train Derailment.
22.
I have been informed by CIE that at approximately 1 a.m. on 18 February 1978 a train from Dublin to Ballina became derailed when traversing power operated points at Manulla Junction. CIE have established that the derailment was caused by a malfunctioning of the power points due to an electrical fault, which CIE state was the first of its kind in 50 years' use of power points in the CIE system. Immediately following the derailment special precautions were taken by CIE at Manulla Junction and at five other locations where similar power points are in use. CIE have assured me that these precautions will eliminate entirely the risk of any repetition of such an occurrence.
I would be much concerned at the knowledge that there are possibly toxic substances on this section of line to the Asahi complex at Killala. I do not want to cause any scare headlines, but as the complex is to be officially opened by the Taoiseach next week the Minister should take the opportunity to give a clear and concise indication that in the unlikely event of such similar occurrences there will be no danger to human life.
I understand the problem raised by the Deputy but I can assure him that in so far as I am aware the precautions which have been taken will eliminate the risk of any repetition of such an occurrence. As this is the first time in 50 years that this problem has arisen, we can take it that it is most unlikely to occur again.