Train drivers face random drug tests

TRAIN drivers face random alcohol and drug testing under legislation before the Dáil.

But union representatives yesterday warned Transport Minister Seamus Brennan and Irish Rail bosses they would oppose any such tests unless there were negotiations first.

“The tests will be opposed until they sit down and negotiate with us. If they think they’re going to railroad it in, they’ve another thing coming,” said Derek Nolan, executive member of the National Bus and Rail Union (NBRU).

“We will be telling our members to refuse any such tests.”

Mr Nolan said the NBRU had no problem with safety initiatives, including random drug testing.

“We support anything that will increase safety.”

He said drivers were familiar with random testing as it applied to Iarnród Éireann drivers when they crossed the Border into Northern Ireland.

The operation of the scheme had to be transparent, he added.

An Irish Rail spokesman said they were waiting for the Railway Safety Bill to be passed before any steps were taken.

A spokeswoman for the Department of Transport said the minister had indicated that he hoped to include in the bill a provision making it a criminal offence for a train driver to test positive for alcohol or drugs.