Call to reopen two Mayo rail platforms

THE old railway platforms in Islandeady and Ballyvary should be reopened on a 'stop on demand' basis.

The suggestion was put forward by cathaoirleach Councillor Martin McLoughlin at the monthly Castlebar Municipal District meeting.

In a notice of motion, he asked that Mayo County Council, in response to climate change and the national policy of encouraging more people to use public transport, would engage with Irish Rail and the Department of Transport to explore the potential of re-opening old railway platforms in Islandeady and Ballyvary, using a system of 'Stop on Demand', as utilised in the UK, to increase rail connectivity in Co. Mayo and to offer more of our citizens the option of using public transport.

Management said they will engage with the relevant bodies on the matter.

A previous call to reopen the railway station in Balla did not receive a positive response.