Thomas Byrne
Question:197. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on Irish Rail's strategy to make train stations staffless; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29325/17]
View answerThursday, 22 June 2017
Questions (197)
Written answers
The Deputy is presumably aware that staffing at train stations is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann and not one in which I have any statutory function. I understand that the Company is keeping staffing under review as there have been changes in customers' purchasing preferences. Overall, only 17% of revenue is now via the traditional booking office, and booking office volumes dropped by as much as 55% in a single year in some locations, as overall passenger numbers rose.
Iarnród Éireann's priorities in determining staffing levels are:
- To ensure busier stations are manned at all times.
- To provide a more flexible resourcing to respond to customer demand, and improve response for customers requiring assistance.
- To ensure a safe and secure environment, working with live monitored CCTV system, contracted private security resources and Garda liaison.
- To ensure revenue is protected, working with the Company's Revenue Protection Unit.
As previously noted, the issue raised is a matter for Iarnród Éireann and I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the Company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
The referred reply under Standing Order 42A was forwarded to the Deputy.