We can learn lessons from rail crash probe

IN the recently broadcast Ulster Giants programme on UTV, Joe Mahon described the 1889 Armagh rail disaster that saw over 80 day-trippers killed.

A government inquiry into the disaster was set up and, as a result of its findings, railways were brought under regulation.

New safety regulations were introduced governing how the brakes on trains worked. New safety brakes were introduced and the scheduling of trains reorganised to prevent a similar accident.

These measures were introduced not just here, but to railways worldwide and form the basis of rail regulation today. The inquiry and the resulting actions took all of two months to complete.

Let us imagine a similar situation today. After two months, we would still be arguing about who was suitable to chair the inquiry. The lawyers and consultants would be climbing over eachotherforashareof the untold millions that it would cost and, years later, we would still be getting excuses as to why no remedial action had been taken.

How times change.

RAYMOND HUGHES Ballyclare, Co Antrim

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