Sir, – I want to thank Irish Rail for their excellent service to us passengers travelling on the 11am Dublin to Cork line on February 12th, the day of storm/hurricane Darwin.
The train stopped as expected at Mallow, but we were then told it could go no further because of debris on the line. We were told buses for those going to Cork would be available. However, we then heard that buses could not travel either as it was too dangerous and we were advised to stay on the train where it was warm. Mallow station itself had no power. We remained there for five hours where free food and hot drinks were available as long as supplies lasted, which was most of the time, I think.
A member of the train staff kept walking up and down the train sharing what small bits of information he had in a very good humoured way, and, as happens in such circumstances, conversations started up.
What really made the uncertain wait tolerable was the information we were being given informally and readily. I commend the staff for continuing to be at our service throughout the long wait. – Yours, etc,
CAROL DORGAN,
Brian Dillon Park,
Dillon’s Cross, Cork.