Statement by Ministers Varadkar & Kelly on Irish Rail

Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo Varadkar and Minister of State Alan Kelly have expressed deep disappointment with the outcome of the ballots on cost saving measures at Iarnród Éireann.

While both Ministers commend those within the company who have voted to accept the measures, it is regrettable that a number of unions have rejected the various efforts in the Labour Relations Commission to reach agreement.

There have already been substantial fare increases and there is no scope for an increase in the Government subvention. Therefore payroll savings are needed to protect existing service levels and jobs as part of the solutions to the financial challenges facing the company. Management at Iarnród Éireann will now have to consider how best to proceed with the implementation of the necessary measures.

Both Ministers called on the unions to re-enter talks with Iarnród Éireann for the sake of the company, all its employees and the travelling public.