Changes likely on rail crossings

Rail death may force a change in European regulations

Emer Gallagher

MAYO’S Fine Gael MEP, Jim Higgins, has said that he is ‘firing on all cylinders’ in a bid to change European regulations governing unmanned railway crossings.
The European Commission is being asked to set down minimum standards of advance warning signs at railway crossings, following the tragic death of PJ McGowan. The semi-retired farmer was killed instantly after his car was struck by the 10.50am passenger train from Ballina to Manulla junction on February 28 last.
Mr Higgins tabled a parliamentary question to Transport Commissioner Jacque Barrot on the matter last week. He is asking for a complete review of standards and is suggesting that the Commission should insist on clear advance warning signs for motorists, together withflashing lights in order to alert motorists of approaching trains. He expects to have a reply on the matter in two weeks.
“It is clear that inadequate signage may have been a factor in the recent tragic death of Foxford man PJ McGowan,” said Jim Higgins.
“I have been talking to a nephew of PJ McGowan who is fully supportive of the idea that we are firing on all cylinders at national level in relation to Iarnród Éireann and at European level in relation to the Commission trying to bring in the regulations.”
The Fine Gael MEP told The Mayo News he is very hopeful that a common European standard for all railway crossings will be introduced.
“The Commission has powers to take action where public safety is concerned. Recent examples of such powers are the issue of certain standards for wing mirrors on lorries. I believe that a common European standard for all categories of railway crossings will be introduced.”
PJ McGowan’s family and neighbours gathered in large numbers on Wednesday, March 19, to highlight their plea to Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) to ensure such a tragedy never happens again.