Accessibility improvements

Mallow and Kent are among 15 train stations where advance notice for accessibility assistance has been reduced to one hour, it was announced on Wednesday.

It comes following a successful pilot over recent months.

The advised notice for assistance has been reduced from 12 hours to one hour at the stations in Mallow and Cork city allowing customers to arrive and arrange assistance or book in advance.

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien TD joined with Iarnród Éireann Chief Executive Jim Meade and members of the company’s Disability Users Group to mark improved assistance arrangements for customers with disabilities.

Mr Meade said: “Improving our service to customers with disabilities is a continuous process, and a critical one. As we expand and develop our rail service, the benefits must be available to all customers who wish to use rail in Ireland. Our Disability Users Group provide us with the insights needed to ensure all investment and service improvements have the needs of customers with disabilities incorporated.”

The fifteen stations represent nearly 60% of all assistance requests received.

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien TD said: “This is very welcome news regarding the improvements being made for customers with disabilities. The Government remains firmly committed to delivering a step change in the supports and services required by people with disabilities.

“An Taoiseach has established a dedicated unit within his Department to focus specifically on disability issues.”

National Transport Authority Transport Accessibility Manager Naomi Rooney said: “NTA is delighted to see the reduction of advance notice to one hour at these key stations. These represent nearly 60% of all assistance requests that Iarnród Éireann receives.”