Aisling Dolan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senators for allowing me the time to come in. The Minister is aware I am based in Ballinasloe and that I am representing the west, which is why I am here to speak. We looked to speak with the Minister and, as I mentioned, we met briefly last week. There is a 6.25 a.m. train service from Galway to Dublin, stopping at Athenry, Athlone and Tullamore, but not at Ballinasloe. Ballinasloe has one train service leaving before 7.30 a.m. going east to Athlone, Tullamore and Dublin. In Athlone, there are five services that leave before 7.30 a.m. to bring people to Dublin. I ask for the Minister's support. We need to look at how we can include Ballinasloe as a stop on that line. Second, I believe food services on the trains are crucial, and the Minister might speak to when that is happening.

I apologise that I have to rush my contribution as time is short. I want to refer to one line that has delays. I know the Minister is looking at Ceannt Station and the line to Oranmore, but there is only single track and no dual track from Portarlington to Galway, which means there are delays on the line. Some of the teams on the train are excellent at speaking on the loudspeakers about the train service. However, people are smoking and each time they smoke, they are blocking the train doors, which is delaying the train. Each time the train is delayed, people are stuck and they wonder why it is stuck at, say, Woodlawn on the way from Galway to Dublin. Often, it has been delayed because it is a single line track. If the Minister could do something about that, it would be much appreciated. If we cannot have a dual line, then it is crucial we use staff to ensure people are not blocking doors and that they are considerate of others on the train who may be trying to get to a meeting. We also need to ensure we stick to the times that are indicated on the timetables for arrival and departure.