asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the action of Córas Iompair Éireann in cancelling the 9.54 a.m. train to Dublin has caused great inconvenience to the residents of Blackrock and particularly to school children; and, if so, whether he will direct Córas Iompair Eireann to provide a train service to Dublin for the residents of this area between 9.36 a.m. and 10.26 a.m.; further, if he will ensure that the general transport service between Dalkey and Dublin will be improved and regularised.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Blackrock-Dublin Train Facilities.
Prior to the introduction of the summer time-table Córas Iompair Éireann provided a train which left Bray at 9.25 a.m. and arrived at Westland Row at 10.01 a.m., stopping at Blackrock at 9.53 a.m. This train connected with the train for Mayo at 10.30 a.m. The time of the train for Mayo has been altered to 10.00 a.m., and the train from Bray has been altered to provide a connection. This involved certain adjustments, including the elimination of the stop at Blackrock. There are services from Blackrock at 8.31, 8.41, 8.55, 9.02, 9.08 and 9.36 a.m., and these should cater reasonably well for business people and school children. In these circumstances I would not feel warranted in asking the company to provide additional trains from Blackrock.
Is it to be understood that the Minister's Department has no power to intervene in a matter of this kind where Córas Iompair Éireann is ignoring its obligations to provide transport facilities in a populous built-up area like Blackrock?
No, but I am satisfied that, having regard to all the circumstances and difficulties in relation to public transport, the provision of services from Blackrock at 8.31, 8.41, 8.55, 9.02, 9.08 and 9.36 a.m., affords, in the circumstances, reasonable facilities.
May I suggest to the Minister that his information is incorrect?
Will the Deputy be good enough to give me particulars? I, of course, am going on the information that I have received from Córas Iompair Éireann.