Written answers
Thursday, 22 June 2017
Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport
Railway Stations
Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
197. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on Irish Rail's strategy to make train stations staffless; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29325/17]
Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
The Deputy is presumably aware that staffing at train stations is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann and not one in which I have any statutory function.I understand that the Company is keeping staffing under review as there have been changes in customers' purchasing preferences. Overall, only 17% of revenue is now via the traditional booking office, and booking office volumes dropped by as much as 55% in a single year in some locations, as overall passenger numbers rose.
Iarnród Éireann's priorities in determining staffing levels are:
- To ensure busier stations are manned at all times.
- To provide a more flexible resourcing to respond to customer demand, and improve response for customers requiring assistance.
- To ensure a safe and secure environment, working with live monitored CCTV system, contracted private security resources and Garda liaison.
- To ensure revenue is protected, working with the Company's Revenue Protection Unit.
As previously noted, the issue raised is a matter for Iarnród Éireann and I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the Company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
No comments