Safety concerns

Councillor criticises Irish Rail

Áine Ryan

AN URGENT review of the safety and security of the Iarnród Éireann  passenger service from Ballina to Manulla has been called for, in light of the recent fatal accident at Straide. Chairwoman of Mayo County Council’s Road and Transportation Strategic Policy Committee, Cllr Michelle Mulherin, yesterday highlighted the fact that there is only one member of staff – the driver – on the train which has a capacity for 120 people.
“The doors of the train are automated and controlled by the driver. In the case of an accident if the driver gets into difficulty or becomes incapacitated in some way then passengers in an emergency have no way to escape from the train other than to break a window,” said Cllr Mulherin.
Over a year ago Iarnród Eireann re-deployed staff from the Ballina-Manulla line leaving just the driver aboard the train and in charge, she also said.
“As Iarnród Eireann now undertakes an investigation into the tragic death of retired farmer Mr PJ McGowan on the railway line at Straide, the issue of safety at level crossings has been brought to the fore. However, the company must also put into sharp focus the adequacy of security and safety on this particular train for passengers and staff alike,” she continued.
She also observed ‘it was disappointing’ that there has been no train out of Ballina since the accident on February 28 last.