Catering trolley services are returning to the the Sligo-Dublin line, it was revealed this week

Catering trolley services are returning to the the Sligo-Dublin line, it was revealed this week with the Irish Rail revealing that it has a preferred supplier to operate the food and drink carts.

The trolley has returned to other services around the country, after it was pulled at the start of the Covid pandemic.

Sligo/Leitrim Senator Nessa Cosgrove welcomed the news and speaking on Ocean FM this week a spokeswoman for Irish Rail confirmed that a preferred supplier had been identified, that funding was being sought and that although a firm date could not be given that she was confident that catering services would be restored.

Speaking following the announcement Senator Cosgrove said:

“I am delighted that Irish Rail have listened to the arguments that I and others have consistently been making since the turn of the year, that catering services are much more than a convenience. They are an essential service. The Sligo-Dublin route is one of the longest train journeys on our island and many passengers, particularly those accessing the early morning services, struggle to get a cup of tea or coffee in the morning or to bring adequate supplies with them. Many people use this route to get to hospital or other health related appointments, and it is essential that these people, along with elderly people and those travelling with young children can access a drink of water or a bite to eat."

She continued that, earlier this year, she had "brought up the case of an older lady who had to be removed from the train after she collapsed, and nobody was able to provide her with a drink. For too long, our leaders in the North West have been content to accept what scraps are offered to us. The restoration of the catering cart is just the first step in a campaign to bring increased investment in transport infrastructure into the region. We need to see an hourly service between Sligo and Dublin, and early morning commuter train between Longford and Sligo and ultimately the full reopening of the Western Rail Corridor, including the section of line between Collooney and Claremorris. But today I want to welcome Irish Rail’s decision and I will be keeping a close eye on developments to ensure that the restoration is as swift and seamless as is possible.”