Ivor Callely (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 36: To ask the Minister for Transport if his Department has received safety audit reports on the Luas; if issues have been raised in relation to the tracks, particularly where there is a bend or turn in the track; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35594/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Responsibility for the regulation of safety issues with respect to the rail network, including Luas, rests with the Railway Safety Commission (RSC) which acts on an independent statutory independent basis in the performance of its functions. Prior to its formal establishment on 1st January this year, the RSC operated on an interim basis under the aegis of my Department.

Passenger services commenced on the Luas in June 2004 following approval by the Interim Railway Safety Commission of the infrastructure, rolling stock and of the operator through the latter's operational safety case. I understand that the Interim Railway Safety Commission also carried out a safety audit of Veolia Transport, formerly Connex, the operators of Luas, in 2005. In addition, as required by the Railway Safety Act 2005, I am informed that Veolia has submitted its up-dated safety case to the RSC.

The safety of the Luas network is being managed by both the RPA and Veolia and there are no current or past safety issues relating to the Luas track. As the Deputy will be aware, the main Luas contractor was obliged to remedy, at no cost to the RPA, problems that emerged with the rail supports at certain sections of the track. This issue was the subject of prior discussions between the RPA and the RSC. These works have now been completed.