asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether, in view of the difficulties of obtaining petrol and fuel oil, he is prepared to direct Córas Iompair Eireann to discontinue the policy of closing railway lines and substituting therefor road transport.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closing of Railway Lines.
Córas Iompair Eireann may not permanently discontinue a service of trains on any railway line until they have first obtained an Order under Section 9 of the Railways Act, 1933. Any application made by the company would be considered in the light of all the relevant circumstances including any supply problems having a bearing on the question.
I must point out, however, that the supply difficulties incidental to the maintenance of the public transport services are not confined to motor fuel, but extend to locomotives and rolling stock, rails, sleepers and many other items essential to the operation of rail services.
What is the meaning of the word "permanent" as used by the Minister? Is the Minister not aware that a number of branch lines in the country have been closed for 12 months?
They have been closed temporarily under an Emergency Powers Order.
They are closed "temporarily" for ever.
Does the Minister not agree that road transport depends entirely on fuel and rubber which have to be imported, mainly from hard currency countries?
The operation of railways depends on the importation of steel, sleepers and fuel.
Fuel for the railways does not come from hard currency countries.
Yes, it has to be imported.
Yes, but presumably the coal is imported from England.