Fears for future of train services south

Wicklow train users could be forced to make alternative travel arrangements if a controversial new plan to reduce services south of Gorey is put onto effect.

The review, prepared by the National Transport Authority recommends curtailing rail services south of Gorey down as far as Rosslare which would see passengers from Co Wicklow forced to use the bus service instead to access Wexford Hospital or Rosslare Europort.

The review, which was established to look at possible solutions to the rail company’s sustainability says that Iarnród Éireann needs more than €640 million in extra finances over the next five years.

Its contents have prompted calls for top-level talks with Minister for Transport Shane Ross.

A spokesperson for the minister said that the report will be brought to Cabinet next week.

‘As indicated at the Oireachtas Committee on Transport on October 5, last Minister Ross recently received a copy of the Rail Review conducted by the National Transport Authority and Irish Rail, which examines the funding parameters required to support our rail network now and into the future. It is his intention to bring the report to Cabinet next week and to arrange very shortly for its publication and commencement of a public consultation process.’

According to Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Pat Fitzgerald any reduction in rail services would be a retrograde step.

‘ This would most certainly be a retrograde step and would have a huge impact on service users in the county. Many people use the train to make hospital appointments and to travel to Rosslare. We must also keep in mind that the buses are at capacity and if rail users move onto the buses there will not be an adequate transport service to serve them all.

‘ This was attempted before and did not come into effect. It is a dreadful proposal,’ said Cllr Fitzgerald.