Vol. 536 No. 1
79 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she has received information relative to the overcrowding of trains, resulting in unsafe travelling conditions on the various commuter routes; the routes most severely affected in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13467/01]
Responsibility for managing crowding and safety on trains is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann. However, I am very much aware of the discomfort that passengers have experienced due to overcrowding on trains over recent years. This is due to the continuing growth in passenger numbers and has resulted in heavy loading at peak periods on some routes, in particular weekday DART and suburban routes, and on intercity services at weekends.
I have advised the House previously that there are no safety standards in place in relation to overcrowding of trains either in this country or at EU level. However, my Department's railway inspecting officers have been in contact with Iarnród Éireann on a number of occasions drawing their attention to the importance of keeping this matter under review. In addition, the chief railway inspecting officer has raised particular aspects of crowding on rail services with Iarnród Éireann and this is being followed up at present.
In February 2001, an independent review of Iarnród Éireann's strategy for controlling crowding on commuter trains in the Dublin area was completed. The consultants, who were commissioned by Iarnród Éireann, identified various options open to Iarnród Éireann to control crowding. I understand that Iarnród Éireann is considering these options at present.
Question No. 80 answered with Question No. 21.
