[Article] Smaller train led to 'overcrowding'

[ThomasJ]

From Sligo Champion
http://www.sligochampion.ie/news/sma...g-1865262.html

By MICHAEL MORAN


Wednesday August 19 2009

A problem with preparations for a €5.5 million replacement of the Shannon bridge on the Sligo-Dublin rail service had a knock-on effect and resulted in an 'overcrowding' situation on last Wednesday morning's 9 am service on the route, Iarnrod Eireann officials have explained.

Passengers raised health and safety concerns and complained of a lack of accommodation on the Sligo-Dublin train.

Corporate Communications Manager, Mr. Barry Kenny, told The Sligo Champion that part of the new bridge was being transported from Dublin in the early hours of Tuesday morning when the 'bogey' carrying it came off the track and this resulted in bus transfers being in operation between Dromod and Carrick-on-Shannon until 2.30 pm on Tuesday afternoon.

"Unfortunately, it also meant that trains were out of position and not where they should have been. We had a three piece train operating out of Sligo at 9 am when usually there would be a six piece.

"Obviously, we would like to apologise to passengers for what happened, but as for the health and safety issue, there is nowhere safer you can be than on a train," said Mr. Kenny.

The long-awaited replacement of the Shannon bridge is due to commence in October/ November and will be complete by the end of the year.

Services will be replaced by bus between Dromad and Carrick-onShannon during the work.

- MICHAEL MORAN