‘Don’t trespass on railway tracks’

The UUP man said that he had received reports about young people accessing the railway line near Monkstown.

“I would urge parents to ensure that they know where their children are and that they are not endangering their lives by trespassing on railway lines. I would call on the local community to assist in protecting life by advising NIR and PSNI if they are aware of trespassing,” he commented.

A spokesperson for Translink NI Railways added: “Our new train fleet is much quieter and faster than older models and a moment’s carelessness could lead to dire consequences.

“To encourage the public to report instances of anti-social behaviour, we operate a reward scheme which will make a cash payment of up to £1,000 to any member of the public who witnesses any incident of trespass, vandalism or assault against a member of staff and is prepared to give evidence in court, resulting in a conviction.

“We would also ask parents to remind children and young people to stay away from railway tracks, especially during the summer months when the evenings are brighter.”