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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 13 Dec 1984

Vol. 354 No. 12

Written Answers. - CIE Safety Regulations.

45.

asked the Minister for Communications if he is aware of the overcrowding on the 5.30 Dublin-Dundalk train out of Connolly station every evening; and if he is satisfied that safety regulations are being adhered to on this and other trains operated by CIE.

46.

asked the Minister for Communications the criteria for assessing standards for safety regulations in CIE trains; and how often spot checks are carried out.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 45 and 46 together.

The criteria used in assessing standards for safety in CIE trains are determined by CIE. The board's principal safety rules and regulations are contained in the CIE rule book, the regulations for train signalling, the working timetable and its appendix, the locomotive drivers' manual, periodic operating notices, the weekly circular and the working instructions for electrified lines. These documents are up-dated and amended by CIE from time to time to take cognisance of changes in work practices and working conditions.

I am informed by CIE that their safety rules and regulations are in accordance with international standards and that implementation is monitored on a daily basis by area inspectors who travel on trains and locomotives. CIE have also informed me that all train crews and signalmen must be certified by a senior officer of the railway as competent to perform their duties and are re-examined in the rules and regulations proper to their duties on an annual basis. In general, the methods of railway operation are not covered by statutory regulations. My Department's statutory functions regarding rail safety are mainly related to the investigation of rail accidents and to the inspection by the Department's railway inspecting officer of new or reconstructed railway installations.

As regards overcrowding on the 5.30 p.m. Dublin/Dundalk train, I am informed by CIE that the provision of seats for all passengers is not a feature of commuter working and that whilst there is no evidence of serious overcrowding of that train, the number of passengers offering may at times exceed seating accommodation. The board has indicated that crush loading conditions only arise when there is a disruption of services for some untoward reason. They are satisfied that the rolling stock in such circumstances is capable of withstanding loads likely to be imposed. The board regrets that such conditions cause discomfort but are satisfied that they do not carry a safety risk.

Since the introduction of the electrified rail services between Howth and Bray in July 1984 rolling stock previously used on that line is now being used to provide additional capacity on other routes, including the service in question to Dundalk.

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