It was certainly a timely engagement as rail users gathered at Kinfolk in Eclectic Avenue in Wexford on Thursday night to discuss the issues impacting the town’s rail users.
That very day, it had been revealed that adult fares for public transport would increase by an average of 15pc from January 2027 under new fare structures announced by the National Transport Authority, a source of considerable criticism in an era where it’s a struggle to lure people out of their private cars.
It was just one of the major gripes Independent councillor Leonard Kelly brought to the table at the “Keeping Wexford on Track” collaboration with rail advocacy group South East On Track, stating commuters were being asked to “pay more for the worst intercity train in the country”.
There was a solid turnout for the discussion, with all demographics represented – students, OAPs, people with disabilities and those commuting for work.
Following some robust contributions, five key issues were identified as affecting Wexford town rail users – the timetable and frequency of services; the continued “inappropriate” use of 29000 class commuter trains on the Rosslare-Dublin Intercity service; accessibility and inclusivity for passengers with limited mobility or disability, fares and fare structures and the availability of catering on board.
Other sources of concern for those in attendance were overcrowding “as a health and safety issue” and antisocial behaviour on board. While the re-opening of the Rosslare to Waterford rail line was also raised, Cllr Kelly urged those present to focus on what should be “easy wins”, that could be brought to bear “if the political will was there”.
“In the immediate term, the group will focus on Iarnród Éireann’s timetable consultation, which is currently open,” said Ciara Murphy of South East on Track.
“A key priority will be bringing the 20:05 Connolly-Gorey service as far as Wexford Town to serve commuters in Enniscorthy and Wexford. This would also facilitate an earlier morning departure that would allow Wexford and Enniscorthy commuters to reach Dublin by 8 a.m.”
“It’s great to have a train service, but it’s definitely sub-standard,” Cllr Kelly said. “It’s a crap train, and it’s causing an adverse impact in that there’s a lot of people unable to use it.
“I think the five main points that were outlined at the meeting are all things that, with the political will and a bit of pressure from our elected representatives can be achieved. I’d ask all of our elected representatives to get behind this campaign.”