Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for coming to the House to discuss this important issue. While I only have brief speaking time, I want to raise two issues. The first concerns the Limerick to Foynes railway line and the fact trees and shrubbery were removed overnight along the rail line to the detriment of houses in Kilteragh, Huntsfield, Cúl Crannagh, Lissanalta, Springfields and Glencairin. I stood in one person's bedroom recently and it was like a motorway in that it has now opened up the whole area, and the M20 and the rail line can be seen right beside people's back gardens. Transport Infrastructure Ireland says this has nothing to do with it and that it is the fault of the rail line. I know the rail company has met with the residents and it is to come back with a plan.

On a second point, I was contacted by a special school recently which tried to book tickets from Limerick to Dublin. It was told it could only have one disability place when there were three people travelling in wheelchairs. I contacted Irish Rail and the issue was resolved but it should not have to come to that. Those are the two issues I would like to raise. I am conscious I have to share time so I will hand over to Senator Ward.