I propose to take Questions Nos. 96 and 97 together.
The new arrangements for locomotive drivers contained in A New Deal for Locomotive Drivers are an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann. I have no function in relation to this matter.
The responsibility for railway safety rests with Iarnród Éireann and I have been informed by the company that it has commissioned consultants Halcrow Transmark to carry out a risk assessment of the new arrangements.
My Department is in the process of developing a new statutory framework for railway safety, based on the outline which I announced last December. As I indicated in my reply to a parliamentary question on 23 February, my Department is available to meet all interested parties to listen to their views on, and suggestions for, the new framework. I understand that officials of my Department will shortly meet representatives of the association in that context.