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)




Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

17 July 2001
ASSEMBLY CREATE AWARD TO HONOUR FIRE SERVICE
THE Northern Ireland Fire Service is to receive the first ever award given by the province's devolved assembly. An illuminated scroll is to be presented to Chief Fire Officer John McClelland on Tuesday, by assembly speaker Lord Alderdice in tribute to the sacrifice made by fire fighters over the years.
16 March 2015
Train Services Disrupted By Security Alert In Lurgan
Train services have been disrupted by a security alert in Lurgan, County Armagh. Lake Street is closed between North Street and Victoria Street. The railway line between Lurgan and Moira has also been closed. Translink said replacement buses have been put in place for Enterprise passengers travelling between Belfast and Dublin.
01 October 2024
NIFRS Launches Online Home Fire Safety Check Tool
The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has introduced a new online tool to help residents assess their home fire safety. The Home Fire Safety Check coincides with Fire Safety Week, which runs from September 30th to October 6th. The initiative aims to reduce the number of house fires in Northern Ireland.
21 May 2003
Fire breaks out on Enterprise train
An engine fire which broke out on the main Belfast to Dublin passenger express this morning stranded passengers near Lurgan. Passengers travelling to Dublin escaped injury after the blaze took hold in the engine compartment of the Enterprise service as it approached Lurgan this morning.
05 June 2023
Up To 20 Involved In Fight At Ballymoney Train Station
Police are appealing for information following a fight at a Balleymoney Train Station in County Antrim. Up to 20 people were reportedly fighting on a train in the Seymour Street area at around 9.45pm on Saturday. A glass bottle was thrown and smashed and a 14-year-old boy who was injured was taken to hospital.