Waterford Rosslare to close

[Mark Gleeson]

But this is the problem this continued assumption that some class of heritage based solution will work.

What has been shocking is the number of people who supposedly support railways who don't want private operation or used these events as a platform to address a grudge they have with Irish Rail or CIE.

The line is not closing, its being suspended which is quite different. Independent engineering consultants will review the line on a regular basis. If the line is not maintained in line with the agreed standard (which will go further than Irish Rail's proposal to the NTA) Irish Rail will be required by contract to sort it out.

Despite Irish Rail's desire to save money the reality is that if a private operator shows up (and that is not fanciful) Irish Rail will actually lose as much money as they did before. There is based on meetings last week full support from various government elements to ensure that Irish Rail permit and treat with respect any operator who arrives.