asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether his Department has received representations directed against the curtailment of the railway service from Skibbereen to Baltimore, Co. Cork, and whether in view of certain facts disclosed in such representation regarding undertakings stated to be given when the railway was constructed and the position of Baltimore as the principal finishing port in the south of Ireland he will make strong representation to the Railway Company on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Curtailed Railway Services.
Representations such as ate indicated have been received. The line was originally constructed under an agreement that it would be worked in perpetuity. But if traders and the public prefer other means of transport, or the railway cannot be worked economically, the position may have to be reconsidered. The pending transport legislation will deal with such matters.
Mr. Murphy
Pending the introduction of legislation will the Minister make any representations to the company on the marrer?
Representations from me would not have any effect. There is either a legal position or there is not. If there is not I cannot pervent the Railway Company doing this, but if there is, it is not for me to take action.
Mr. Murphy
Would not the Minister discuss the matter with the local people?
With what view?
Mr. Murphy
Specific undertakings as to the number of trains they would run were, I understand, originally given; and that raises a very important question. Would the Minister be prepared to consider the case from that angle?
I have already said that representations have been received and have been considered, and I find myself faced with certain difficulties in regard to action on such representations. Meeting the local people will not, I think remove the difficulties in any way. I am quite aware of everything urged in the representations.