HC Deb 14 June 1917 vol 94 cc1109-10
16. Mr. KEATING

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he is aware that war conditions have militated against the prosperity and development of Irish seaside and health resorts; that no compensating advantages have been forth- coming to relieve the depression and consequent decay now prevailing in these' centres; that the published announcement by the Government prohibiting the running of trains in Ireland at excursion and' tourist rates this year cannot fail to affect still more injuriously the trades and interests in those districts and towns dependent upon summer traffic and the-health of town workers and their families; and will he call upon the Irish Railway Executive Committee to withdraw immediately the regulation complained of and to allow as heretofore the southern railways to issue excursion and tourist tickets to Irish holiday and seaside resorts during the coming summer season?

Mr. DUKE

If the ordinary pre-war facilities were given for seaside resorts it would involve the running of a large number of special and excursion trains, and, in existing circumstances, the Railway Executive Committee is opposed to increasing the amount of merely "pleasure" traffic. Their stores are being heavily trenched on and their locomotives need easier work and more repairs.

Mr. J. MacVEAGH

Would it not be possible to restore the excursion rates without increasing the number of trains?

Mr. DUKE

I have discussed this question directly and indirectly on various occasions with the Railway Executive Committee, who show every disposition to do what they can in the matter, but I am told that it is impossible.

Mr. MacVEAGH

Is it not the fact that a large number of trains running to these seaside resorts are half empty, and would it not be beneficial to the Government, as well as to the Railway Executive, to have the available space utilised?

Mr. DUKE

As my hon. Friend knows, it you issue a ticket to an intending passenger and are unable to fulfil the contract which you enter into difficulties may arise which are perhaps unforeseen in this general discussion.