Vol. 408 No. 4
28 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications if he will outline the measures taken by Iarnród Éireann to ensure the safety of rail passengers with particular reference to animal trespass on railway property; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The chairman of CIE has advised me that every mile of track on the railway network is inspected by Iarnrod Éireann personnel at least twice weekly. This inspection includes an examination of accommodation level crossing gates and of railway and other fencing for any deficiencies likely to lead to animal incursion. Any defects found on inspection are reported and arrangements are made for their immediate repair. Maintenance personnel are located strategically throughout the railway network for this purpose.
Following a derailment near Claremorris in September 1989, which resulted from a collision between a passenger train and a herd of cattle, Iarnrod Éireann established an internal inquiry to ascertain the cause of this accident and also to examine in detail the possibilities of eliminating or reducing hazards in the operation of accommodation level crossings. I have been informed by the chairman of CIE that Iarnrod Éireann are in the process of implementing the recommendations contained in the report of the internal inquiry. I understand that Iarnrod Éireann are maintaining regular contact with the farming bodies, both in private and through public meetings, to achieve a greater awareness of safety at railway level crossings.
