Rail Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 December 2019

Tuesday, 3 December 2019

Ceisteanna (499)

Catherine Murphy

Ceist:

499. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason and-or context and the consultation Irish Rail undertook in respect of the peak time initiative; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that many persons are bound by core hour contracts and do not have the flexibility in their employment to engage with the initiative; if he and or his officials have used Irish Rail services in the manner that Irish Rail are promoting in terms of peak time travel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49790/19]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport in Ireland. The issue raised is a matter for Irish Rail and I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the operator for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

In relation to final part of the Deputy's question, my Department does not hold information regarding the private travel arrangements of its officials. The Deputy will be aware, however, that the flexible hours working arrangements that are available to many staff across the Civil Service, including in my Department, gives staff some flexibility to vary their starting and finishing times.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A