asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the publication by the transport tribunal of the application by Córas Iompair Éireann seeking to close branch railway lines permanently stipulates that objections to this course must be lodged with the tribunal in a period of about a fortnight; and, if so, if he will arrange that the time for lodging objections be extended to five weeks to permit public and other interested bodies, which only meet monthly, to convene special meetings as arranging such meetings in rural areas can only be done with difficulty in the space of a fortnight.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closing of Branch Lines.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 55 of the Transport Act, 1950, the transport tribunal is responsible for fixing the period within which objections may be lodged to an application by Córas Iompair Éireann for an Order authorising the permanent discontinuance of train services on any branch line. Any representations regarding the time limit fixed should be made direct to the tribunal.
Would the Minister not agree that a fortnight does not allow sufficient time to parish councils, county councils and other responsible bodies to compile the necessary information which would enable the transport tribunal to arrive at a decision? A fortnight is a very, very short time. Would the Minister be prepared to make recommendations to extend the time in the case of the Ferbane-Banagher branch line?
As I understand the procedure of the transport tribunal, for which I am not responsible, the mere notice that an objection has been made will be sufficient if received in time. The actual case in detail may be submitted later.
That is not too bad.