Minister for Public Enterprise Mrs O’Rourke has announced new measures designed to improve railway safety.
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Minister for Public Enterprise Mrs O’Rourke
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The measures include the setting up of a Railway Safety Commission, which will monitor the rail network, investigate accidents, and have wide-ranging enforcement powers.
Its remit will cover the whole Iarnród Éireann network, heritage railways and the LUAS and metro systems.
Mrs O’Rourke said the commission, set up under a new Railway bill, will have "stringent powers" to ensure passenger safety. Road authorities will also be required to consult with the rail forms to ensure co-operation.
Any company failing to co-operate with the Commission may be fined up to €0.5 million.
Iarnród Éireann, LUAS and metro staff will also have to comply with strict alcohol and drug testing.