Ross must act on latest anti-social Irish Rail figures

Labour Transport spokesperson, Senator Kevin Humphreys is calling on the Minister for Transport, Shane Ross to support the establishment of a dedicated transport police force to address the increase in antisocial and aggressive behavior on board Iaranród Éireann services.

Senator Humphreys has written to Minister Ross, seeking a meeting to discuss how this can be progressed.

Commenting on the increase figures today, Senator Humphreys said:

“The number of anti-social incidents on board trains is up 22% from this time last year. Between 2016 and 2017, there was a 50% increase in these incidents, and now the first half of this year has seen a further increase.

“Staff and customers alike need a commitment from the Minister for transport that action will be taken to tackle this behaviour which is approaching crisis level.

“Staff have been left with knee injuries, broken fingers, cracked ribs and recently a member of staff suffered a broken wrist as a result of a bottle being broken after being struck with a bottle.

“The staff of Iarnród Éireann deserves to be treated with respect and have a fair expectation of safety in the workplace.

“I raised this issue in the Seanad with Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan, and I welcomed his commitment to raising this issue within An Garda Síochána but there must now be action taken to create a safe environment for customers and staff alike.

“I am calling on Minister Ross to establish a dedicated transport police force to keep passengers and staff members alike, safe onboard. I have written to the Minister today requesting a meeting to discuss how this issue can be progressed.”