Long-awaited progress on getting tea back on the Mayo train

Aontú TD Paul Lawless has received confirmation from Iarnród Éireann that they will be rolling out a pilot scheme aimed at restoring catering services on train routes out of Heuston before the end of the year.

Deputy Lawless has urged them to ensure that the Mayo line is included in this pilot.

He also raised concerns that adequate time is not being given in Heuston Station between the announcement of the platform number and the departure time for the Westport train.

Deputy Lawless said: "It’s shocking to think during this hot weather there hasn't been a cup of tea or bottle of water sold on that train since before covid.

"Catering services remain in place on the Cork and Belfast trains out of Dublin, but Irish Rail have now said they will start a pilot scheme before the end of the year on 'a selected route or routes'.

"I will be working with colleagues across the board to ensure that the Westport service is included in this pilot.

"This should not have a cost to the taxpayer as Irish Rail are working with a commercial catering partner. I am confident that this service can be self-sustaining, with the advancement of technology, and I hope the pilot programme will confirm this".