Station needs a makeover, not just a facelift
Heuston Station in Dublin might come up to 21st century standards, but Kent station in Cork hasn't reached the 20th century yet.
It is not even mentioned in the 10-year grand plan, which will cost €34.4 billion. Questioned about this a spokesman for Iarnród Éireann said: "A €1.2 million interim upgrade has been sanctioned and large scale development will take place before the end of 2008."
It seems this Cork development is of such little consequence that a spokesman who cannot be held accountable makes a vague promise.
On the other hand, the enormous Transport 21 plan is so exciting that ministers are jockeying for position in order to get credit for delivering it.
Has any one of these ministers stood in Kent Station on a cold, windy night waiting for train which is late again? Has any one of them stood in Kent Station with ear plugs to block out the piercing screech as the train brakes?
Has any of them been on the Cork-Dublin train travelling from Mallow and been told over the intercom (barely audible) that because of rain the wheels are slipping on the rails, hence the snail's pace?
Has any one of these ministers tried to read the rolling information display which spat out gibberish for weeks now switched off, not repaired! How can the rail system be upgraded when this station is more in keeping with some examples in the Third World?
I say, don't waste taxpayers' money yet again by spending €1.2 million on an interim upgrade, but do it properly, and do it now.
As the second largest city in the State, Cork commuters are entitled to it.
Greta Kelly
Maulnagearagh
Clonakilty
Co Cork
