Vol. 409 No. 9
28 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications if he will outline, in respect of each of the past five years, the number of persons killed or injured as a result of being struck by trains or falling from trains; if he has satisfied himself that safety procedures are adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The number of persons killed or injured as a result of being struck by or falling from trains, in each of the past five years, is as follows: 1986, 13; 1987, 16; 1988, 11; 1989, 15; 1990, 17.
I have been assured by Iarnród Éireann, who have primary responsibility for the safety of railway operations, that their staff are trained to operate the railway system in a careful and effective manner. The statutory obligation on the company to operate in a safe manner is treated as a very high priority. Furthermore, my Department are in regular contact with Iarnród Éireann on safety standards and procedures.
While CIE are satisfied that safety procedures on the railway are adequate, my Department will continue to ensure, in consultation with CIE, that rail safety requirements are reviewed and adjusted as necessary in the light of experience.
