[Jamie2k9]

So now instead of it being a simple matter of running a loco down to rescue a dead train, the rescuer has to pass two or three other trains stuck behind the dead service. So a lot of time, it probably is simpler to get the dead service limping on site rather than trying to haul it out.

There was two trains behind it 13.15 (Waterford) which got away with a delay and 13.25 (Galway) which could of ran to Newbridge/Kildare and cleared the way for the loco. Anyway there is usually 071's hanging around Portlaoise yard that could of moved it if there was congestion behind.

There is also single line working which I understand was not in affect which would of helped things as inbound were largely un affected. Been a Saturday less CTC staff could be an issue?

I am not expecting no delays but I also don't expect to see what happened over and over again.

The worse delay I ever had was about 10 years ago near Inny Junction where a loco-hauled service hit a herd of cattle. Despite there being another loco in Edgeworthstown waiting for us to cross, it took them about 2 hours to get us hauled about 8km to Edgeworthstown because the brakes were partially stuck on the damaged train. If it was a matter of having to get us further, it would probably have been simpler to get it patched on site.

Fully understandable but an exceptional issue, I only recall 2 delays in recent years 2009 (Waterfod) and 2014 (Cork). You got away lightly comapred to the recent 2.

The only thing they have learned over the last 3 years or so is not to stack trains up but stop at stations where at all possible. About time they decided to take something else on board and put it into practice for the next time that will benefit customers and cut down delays.