Trespassing leads to rail disruption

On Thursday July 18 at around 5:50 pm, two male trespassers were seen walking from Cloughan Point towards Whitehead by a train driver. The PSNI were informed and attended the scene.

A similar incident was reported the following day at about 2:05 pm after a signaller advised there were two trespassers on the line on the Carrickfergus side of the station.

A caution was imposed and services operated at slower speeds than normal. The track was clear by 2.25 pm and the speed restriction removed.

“The impacts of trespassing range from delays to services on the line where a trespasser has been reported, which can severely impact passengers, through to the risk of serious injury or death,” said Translink’s communications manager Lynda Shannon.

“Our trains have CCTV both inside and out and there are cameras located in several areas around the network which clearly capture footage of trespassers. If prosecuted, trespassers risk being fined if convicted at court.

“Over the summer months we will be running our annual ‘Deadline’ campaign to remind pedestrians and motorists to stay safe around railway tracks.”

Translink also operates 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.