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AT A time when the Government is committed to reopening the western rail corridor, a decision by Iarnród Éireann to close the Rosslare/Waterford rail line appears to be perverse. The once-a-day train service in either direction is losing money, but critics maintain that a deliberate reduction in services, a lack of promotion and poor timetabling has brought about that situation.

A final decision on the matter may be taken by the National Transport Authority tomorrow when its board meets to consider a number of submissions. Iarnród Éireann maintains the service attracts about 25 passengers a day and lost most of its freight business following the closure of the sugar beet industry. Business leaders and local authorities favour a “community rail partnership” along UK lines whereby the rail company would continue to run the trains and local groups would promote and market the service. This would involve an enhanced timetable and extra train services.