Denis Naughten
Question:46 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she has completed an investigation into the rail incidents at Kiltoom level crossing earlier in 2001; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13184/01]
Written Answers - Rail Accidents.
On 20 February 2001 I directed the railway inspecting officers of my Department to carry out an inquiry into the cause of the railway accident on 16 February 2001 at Kiltoom level crossing, County Roscommon, and into the previous accidents at this level crossing.
On 6 March Córas Iompair Éireann wrote to the chief railway inspecting officer raising a number of legal issues relating to the nature of the inquiry and also to procedural matters. My Department sought the advice of the Chief State Solicitor on 12 March and I am aware that the Chief State Solicitor has asked the advice of the Attorney General on the legal issues involved. However, I understand that this advice is still awaited.
Pending the receipt of the legal advice, the railway inspecting officers have being gathering background information from Iarnród Éireann in relation to Kiltoom level crossing. The chief railway inspecting officer intends to proceed immediately with the inquiry as soon as the legal issues have been clarified.