Bernard Allen
Question:23 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she will introduce legislation to control overcrowding in trains. [24589/98]
Written Answers - Rail Services.
Emmet Stagg
Question:58 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if her railway inspecting officer has reported to her on the serious overcrowding of passengers on the Maynooth suburban line; if so, if the inspector has made recommendations with a view to limiting the number travelling at peak hours; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26917/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 23 and 58 together.
I understand that there are no safety standards in relation to overcrowding of trains at EU level, or in individual member states. It is a matter for Iarnród Éireann to satisfy itself that the number of passengers being carried in any particular type of carriage does not compromise overall passenger safety. I have no statutory function in relation to this matter.
I am very much aware of the discomfort that passengers have experienced due to overcrowding on trains in recent times. There has been continuing growth in passenger numbers and this has resulted in heavy loading at peak periods on some routes. However, ongoing investment in additional rolling stock will increase the capacity available to deal with peak periods and should help to alleviate the difficulties.
My Department's railway inspecting officer was recently in contact with Iarnród Éireann to draw its attention to a number of complaints he had received from members of the public about overcrowding, and he requested the company to ensure that they take any appropriate action to discharge their responsibility for passenger safety in this context.
Since there are no international standards in this area and since Iarnród Éireann is responsible for railway safety, the question of the railway inspecting officer making recommendations to me does not arise.