asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether, in view of the fact that economic operation of hitherto uneconomic branch railway lines has been made possible by the introduction of diesel engines, he will introduce legislation to enable him to consider the reopening of closed branch lines and, in particular, the Cashel line, in respect of which a substantial potential demand exists for a goods service.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Reopening of Railway Branch Lines.
Under the provisions of the Transport Act, 1950, the Transport Tribunal, having held a public inquiry, made an order in December, 1953, exempting C.I.E. from the obligation to operate a service of trains over this line. New legislation would not be required to enable services to be restored. The question of restoring services is, however, a matter entirely for C.I.E. and I do not contemplate the introduction of legislation to alter this position.