Tom Morrissey (Progressive Democrats)

Two nights ago, this House had a debate on the Clare Street initiative by the Department of Transport. This was welcome because it at least gave Members some indication as to the Department's intentions in respect of transport and gridlock issues. This morning, I travelled to Pearse station from Castleknock on the 8.20 a.m. suburban train. I can safely state that nowhere else in the western world would such a level of service be provided. People were crushed into the train in an appalling experience which must have bordered on the dangerous. It raises questions of health and safety. Passengers disembarking at Tara Street station must descend by using the emergency exit as the station's escalator has been out of action since 6 June. They then encounter people coming in at the same time to access the station.