Spreading Train Strike Causing Chaos

The continuing strike by Iarnród Éireann train drivers has spread this morning, with services cancelled in many parts of the country.

The company has been forced to abandon morning services from Galway, Athlone and Westport to Heuston Station in Dublin leaving commuters stranded and employers struggling with huge absences.

In addition, the cancellation of all morning services from Cork to Dublin, the early train from Tralee to Cork and all services between Cork and Cobh and Cork and Mallow has further exacerbated the crises.

The chaos was triggered yesterday after a driver was removed from the payroll for refusing to co-operate with the training of new recruits.

Iarnród Éireann also says it cannot guarantee that the strike will not spread further today.

Trade unions have accused the company of deliberately provoking the dispute.

Fine Gael TD David Stanton called on Iarnród Éireann and train drivers' representatives to immediately open talks to end the rostering dispute.

He said: "This action has caused enormous disruption to Cork to Dublin services, left thousands of passengers stranded and affected other services within Munster. Eleven services between Heuston Station and Cork were cancelled as a result of the stoppage, as well as commuter services from Cork to Cobh and Mallow.

"This has been a massive inconvenience to passengers, and will also have an economic impact. Iarnród Éireann and drivers' representatives must immediately open talks to resolve this dispute and ensure there is no recurrence."

In some positive news for motorists however, traffic diversions in north Co Dublin have been lifted.

Gardaí say the southbound section of the M1 motorway, between Lissenhall and Swords, has reopened to traffic.

Machinery which became detached from a trailer and blocked the carriageway has now been removed.

Gardaí are advising motorists to continue to drive with care.

(DW)