Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 30 Mar 1994

Vol. 440 No. 8

Written Answers. - Dangerous Substances.

Ivor Callely

Question:

78 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the quantity and value of and the frequency with which acrylonitrile and methyl acrylate are transported through Dublin city to Ballina, County Mayo; if these substances are highly explosive; his views on whether an alternative transport route through a less densely populated area would be more appropriate; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Ivor Callely

Question:

79 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the goods that are transported through Dublin on a regular basis that are known to be dangerous; the consideration which he has given to alternative transport routes; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications (Mr. Cowen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 78 and 79 together.

Iarnród Éireann is involved in regular transport of four dangerous substances by rail through Dublin viz. acrylonitrile, methyl acrylate, anhydrous ammonia and certain petroleum products. Acrylonitrile is carried by rail between Dublin and Ballina on four trains each week, with one tank container of methyl acrylate on two of these trains. Information relating to quantity and value of products carried cannot be supplied for reasons of commercial confidentiality. Methyl acrylate and acrylonitrile are classed as being potentially explosive in certain circumstances.

The trains involved in the transportation of these substances are operated generally in accordance with the provisions of regulations concerning the international carriage of dangerous goods by rail, RID. The tank containers and tankers comply with International Union of Railways, UIC, specifications and appropriate information notices and hazard labels are carried. Maximum speeds are restricted and all persons concerned in these operations are given special training.

I am satisfied that the current arrangements for the transport of these substances by rail are safe, having regard to the special equipment and procedures in use and the emergency plans which exist to deal with any incident involving these operations. I have no function in relation to the consideration of alternative transport modes or routes for these goods.