Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 94:

In page 50, between lines 22 and 23, to insert the following:

"(b) requirements for the maintenance and inspection of railway infrastructure, rail track, permanent way and rolling stock,

(c) the maximum carrying capacity for both passenger and freight trains,

(d) the maximum hours of work and the minimum hours of rest for safety critical staff,".

This section provides that the commission be given the power to make regulations in a number of areas important to rail safety. What I am seeking is that the commission be allowed make regulations in respect of the maintenance and inspection of railway infrastructure, the permanent way, rolling stock and the rail track. It is strange that aspect appears to have been omitted from the Bill. Also the commission should be allowed make recommendations on the maximum number of hours people would work on railways. There are similar issues in the area of aviation. I understand that for some reason, traditionally, this has been omitted from rail safety legislation. It appears to me that it should be included in a new Bill and also the maximum carrying capacity. There is a point beyond which trains might be considered to be overpacked either with freight or passengers. Will the Minister respond to these points?

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