Irish Rail criticised after advising pre-booked engers to consider later trains
James Cox
A general election candidate has hit out at Irish Rail for their recent decision to write to pre-booked engers suggesting they wait for later trains due to overcrowding on booked services.
Councillor Clodagh Higgins, a Fine Gael candidate in Galway East, argues that this message highlights a "serious flaw in Ireland’s push to a more sustainable, public-transport-oriented society".
“If we are genuinely encouraging people to opt for public transport, the infrastructure has to be fit for purpose," she said.
"It's simply unacceptable that engers, who have made the effort to plan their journeys by booking in advance, are being asked to consider altering their travel plans due to overcrowding.
“For many, this isn't feasible and only discourages future use of public transport."
She called on Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan to "urgently address these service limitations, as this incident is part of a broader issue with Ireland's rail system".
"Galway East commuters and others across the country need a transport network that is reliable, predictable, and scaled to meet demand.
“We’ve seen overcrowding and delays particularly in Athenry for far too long, and it’s clear the current system cannot accommodate the growing number of engers.”
She added: “Urgent government action is needed to address capacity issues and invest in meaningful improvements to rail services, so that the public can rely on them as a viable commuting option.
“Minister Ryan, it's time to step up and deliver a public transport service that Irish people can count on. Otherwise, our ambitions for a sustainable, greener future will remain nothing more than empty promises."
