Railway safety fears discussed

SAFETY concerns for Myroe farmers relating to the Londonderry rail line were raised at a recent meeting with the Ulster Farmer’s Union and NI Rail engineers as well as local farmers.

Local DUP representatives George and Alan Robinson welcomed the recent meeting where farmers were given the opportunity to discuss safety issues.

The Londonderry to Coleraine train passing Downhill, in Co Londonderry today. One of Ireland's most scenic railway routes has fallen victim to government cutbacks as a long planned track upgrade hit the buffers. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday August 17, 2011. The £75 million scheme to create a passing loop and relay sections of the single line that winds along Northern Ireland's north coast from Coleraine to Londonderry has been postponed for at least two years due to lack of funds. See PA story ULSTER Rail. Photo credit should read: Paul Faith/PA Wire

placeholder image — The Londonderry to Coleraine train passing Downhill, in Co Londonderry today. One of Ireland's most scenic railway routes has fallen victim to government cutbacks as a long planned track upgrade hit the buffers. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday August 17, 2011. The £75 million scheme to create a passing loop and relay sections of the single line that winds along Northern Ireland's north coast from Coleraine to Londonderry has been postponed for at least two years due to lack of funds. See PA story ULSTER Rail. Photo credit should read: Paul Faith/PA Wire

George Robinson said: “This type of face to face discussion has consistently proved to be beneficial in the resolving the difficulties faced by farmers who have land on both sides of the Londonderry line.

“Concerns were expressed regarding the current arrangements for them crossing the line in their daily farming operations, and NIR Engineers have stated that they will look at the problems. “However, they did state that work with regard to additional safety measures are not due to be undertaken until Phase Twi of the line upgrade in 2014/2015.

“We have written to Mr. Danny Kennedy MLA, Regional Development Minister and Ms Catherine Mason Chief Executive of Translink, in support of the farmers and seeking the safety issues to be considered as and when funding becomes available.

“We would also acknowledge the great work that has been done by Translink in re-opening the line ahead of schedule so that the regular NIR passengers locally now have their service restored.

“As this is a phased scheme we are aware funding is allocated on that basis, but have requested that any money available in the next monitoring round would be considered for the health and safety considerations that the local farmers have expressed.”