Irish Rail has announced that it could be forced to discontinue four of it routes if a major shortfall in its funding isn't solved, while also stating that it will be brought to the brink of insolvency if it grants a pay increase being requested by its staff.
The Irish Independent reports that the public transport company made a submission to the Labour Court claiming it's in a "perilous financial state" and that it is considering ceasing its services with the largest State subvention per journey.
The four routes facing cessation run from Limerick to Ballybrophy, Limerick Junction to Waterford, Ennis to Athenry and Gorey to Rosslare. Irish Rail asserts that potential financial savings from these closures could amount to €17.6 million per annum.
The Labour Court submission also states that the approval of a 3.75% pay rise that isn't facilitated by extra productivity would "result in an immediate financial crisis" for the company.
The document goes on to declare, "In relation to network reductions and line closures, it should be noted that every rail service in the country requires subvention, ranging from 70% per passenger journey on the Dart up to €761.60 on the Limerick to Ballybrophy line."
Irish Rail says that the earliest time at which potential closures will occur is the start of 2018.
