Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 10 May 2001

Vol. 536 No. 1

Written Answers - Rail Services.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

14 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise her views on the report by a consultancy group (details supplied) in relation to strategies to control crowding on commuter trains at peak times; if she will bring recommendations to Government arising from the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13181/01]

Minister for Public Enterprise (Mrs. O'Rourke)

The control of crowding on trains is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann. The report referred to by the Deputy, produced by Halcrow Group Limited, was commissioned by Iarnród Éireann to review its strategy for controlling crowds on commuter trains in the Dublin area.

The consultants identified various options open to Iarnród Éireann to control crowding and divided their findings into three categories, that is, "recommended to continue", "recommended for further detailed evaluation by Iarnród Éireann" and "not recommended". I understand that Iarnród Éireann is considering these options at present. However, I note that one of the options which the consultants have recommended for further evaluation by Iarnród Éireann, relates to the use of ticket pricing to control demand. I am opposed to such an option.

It is the policy of this Government to encourage maximum use of public transport, including the railways. To this end, the Government has financed the purchase of new rolling stock by Iarnród Éireann to increase the passenger carrying capacity of the railway. On the DART line, ten new rail cars entered service in November last and a further 16 rail cars are going into service at present. A further 12 DART rail cars are due for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2001 and should enter service early in 2002.

Twenty diesel rail cars were purchased for use on the Maynooth line and are ready for use, pending resolution of the industrial dispute. A further 58 diesel rail cars have been ordered for delivery in 2002 and 2003. These 58 rail cars are suitable for use on longer distance routes and outer suburban routes in the Dublin area. Finally, I understand that CIE have ordered a further 22 rail cars for delivery in 2002 and 2003. This on-going delivery of new rail cars will increase the capacity available to deal with peak periods and should help to alleviate the present crowding difficulties.