Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Jun 1996

Vol. 467 No. 4

Written Answers. - Cork Derailment.

Eoin Ryan

Question:

314 Mr. E. Ryan asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if his attention has been drawn to an incident in Kent Station, Cork, on Sunday 16 June 1996, involving a train carrying dangerous chemicals, of which three carriages were derailed; the nature and scope of the investigation that is being carried out in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13356/96]

Eoin Ryan

Question:

315 Mr. E. Ryan asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications in relation to an incident at Kent Station, Cork, involving the derailing of three tankers containing dangerous chemicals and the conflicting statements concerning the contents of the tankers from CIÉ and the IFI, as reported in a national newspaper (details supplied), if he will clarify the reported statement from CIÉ that the tankers were empty in view of the statement from IFI that the tankers never contain less than an average of 1/2 tonne of ammonia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13357/96]

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

I propose to take Question Nos. 314 and 315 together.

I am advised by Iarnród Éireann that at approximately 10.30 hours on Sunday, 16 June 1996 three discharged ammonia tank wagons on the 04.10 hours ammonia train from the NET plant at Arklow to Marino Point, Cork became derailed at low speed in Cork rail yard during shunting operations. The incident posed no threat to the public, rail staff or the environment. The local emergency plan was implemented immediately and was stood down shortly after noon. Iarnród Éireann has established a board of inquiry to determine the cause of the derailment and to recommend any necessary remedial action.

I understand that the tank wagons involved in the accident were in a standard discharged state — that is to say that the bulk of the cargo of liquid ammonia had been off-loaded leaving small residues in the tanks, and in this regard, the use of the term "empty" was inadvertent. I should emphasise, however, that whether laden or discharged, the tank wagons are subject to the same stringent safety standards and emergency procedures at all times.