Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 19 Oct 1999

Vol. 509 No. 4

Written Answers. - Rail Accidents.

Paul McGrath

Question:

123 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if, in the context of the rail safety monitoring role of her Department, her attention has been drawn to a recent incident on the Dublin to Galway rail line close to Castledaly, County Westmeath; if a passenger train was involved; the cause of this accident; the danger to the public and Iarnród Éireann staff; the amount of damage done to the locomotive involved; if it is her view that the cost of the damage caused should be recovered by way of civil action or agreement of the parties involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20766/99]

Minister for Public Enterprise (Mrs. O'Rourke)

The incident to which the Deputy is likely to be referring occurred on 30 March last when the Dublin to Galway railway line was obstructed by objects on the line near Castledaly, County Westmeath. An unidentified obstruction was struck by the 13.05 p.m. Heuston to Westport passenger train and appears to have been thrown clear by the impact of the train. The line was then inspected and was found to be clear of obstacles.

However at 15.46 p.m. the 14.25 p.m. Heuston to Galway passenger train struck another obstruction some distance from the first incident. This consisted of a short section of rail which appears to have been placed in the path of the train. The obstacle travelled under the train, causing damage to the engine sump and to the underside and braking systems of a number of carriages.

I am informed by the company that this obstacle could have derailed the train which would have placed the staff and passengers on the train in danger.

It is understood the Garda is pursuing an investigation into the incidents. As regards Iarnród Éireann taking a civil action arising from the incident that would be a matter for the company and I would have no function in it.