asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce (1) if he will permit the reopening of the branch railway from Woodenbridge to Shillelagh for goods traffic; and (2) if he will permit the resumption of the passenger service on the branch railway from Sallins to Tullow.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Reopening of Railway Branch Lines.
The supply position does not at present warrant the resumption of the services to which the Deputy refers. The Woodenbridge-Shillelagh branch line is, however, being reopened temporarily to deal with beet traffic in the area.
Would it not be possible for the Minister, having reopened this Woodenbridge line for traffic temporarily, to provide even a two-day service on this line for the transport of cattle to market and to facilitate the holding of fairs?
To answer the question, I should require to be a prophet. I do not know what the supply position will be in future, but I say that the present supply position does not permit a reopening of the line.
Surely being a prophet presents no difficulty to the Minister?
On this occasion, yes.
Particularly when nobody heeds his prophecies.