Iarnród Éireann cleaning up its act

IT’S good to see that Iarnród Éireann is cleaning up its act by forking out €1 million for a new washing machine for trains.

The system was officially launched at Heuston station yesterday amid promises that it will lead to improvements in the cleanliness and overall appearance of the company's 444 carriages and 110 locomotives.

But no doubt weary travellers who have endured overcrowded trains at weekends and match days would prefer if the company spent this money on increasing the number of carriages.

To be fair to Iarnród Éireann this new hi-tech automated train washer will be a major improvement on the machine that has been doing the work for over 20 years. The computer-controlled drive-in machine has powerful brushes and pneumatically controlled arms to ensure trains get a thorough cleaning.

Iarnród Éireann's Chief Operating Officer, Dick Fearn said while the ongoing investment in infrastructure is critical, the company must also ensure the existing fleet is presented in the best condition to customers.

That means litter free carriages, cleaner seats and tables and working, safe and acceptable toilets.

Iarnród Éireann has admitted levels of cleanliness fluctuate mainly when there is a problem with rostering. But it says trains are generally cleaned daily and more staff will be hired to improve the service.

A quick straw poll of travellers at Heuston station any day would tell the company where to put its money in future more carriages instead of washing machines.