07/06/2013

Investigation Begins Into Train Fire

An investigation has begun into a fire that broke out on a Belfast - Dublin train yesterday evening.

114 passengers were on board train when the fire began in the locomotive of the main Dublin Enterprise train.

The train stopped at Gorawood, an out-of-use station several miles north of Newry, shortly after 19:00.

Affected carriages were separated to bring the fire under control.

No one was injured and Translink personnel organised another train for the passengers' onward journey.

Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy praised Translink staff and the emergency services.

He said: "This has been a distressing situation for all passengers concerned and I am very relieved that no-one has been injured. Every effort is being made to ensure passengers are removed from the scene as quickly as possible.

"Obviously the safety of the public is our key priority and some passengers have had to remain on the train while the fire was brought under control.

"I am very grateful for the quick actions of the driver and Translink staff in dealing with this incident and also for the emergency services in responding to this incident so quickly.

"I have spoken to Leo Varadkar, the Transport Minister in the Republic of Ireland and updated him on the incident. We have both agreed there will be a full investigation into the causes of the fire."

(IT/MH)




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