This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Boyack warns rail vandalism remains 'Serious Cause for Concern'
18/12/2000
Transport Minister Sarah Boyack today urged the rail industry to join forces with local communities to tackle vandalism on Scotland's railways.
Figures published today show that there were 139 train incidents across Scotland last year, a reduction of seven on the previous year, with the majority caused by missiles being thrown at trains or obstructions being placed on the lines.
The statistics are part of the annual report published today by HM Rail Inspectorate.
The Minister said:
"These figures show that vandalism is a major problem for the Scottish rail industry. The threat to passengers and staff safety is unacceptable and gives serious cause for concern.
"There is no room for complacency when it comes to rail safety and we must work together to ensure that every effort is made to educate the public about the dangers vandalism can cause.
"Despite the ongoing problems with vandalism, I am pleased that Scotland is managing to buck the national trend in terms of the numbers of general train incidents throughout the UK and show a decrease in the number of incidents."
BACKGROUND
1. HM Rail Inspectorate annual report is published today and was launched in Glasgow.
2. The statistics cover the year up to 31 March 2000. The number of train incidents across the UK was up by 60 but in Scotland the number of incidents fell by seven.
3. The Health and Safety Executive and the rail industry launched a nationwide publicity campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of trespass and vandalism on the railways. Working with the Scottish Executive, the HMRI also conducted local projects including inspections with Railtrack and the British Transport Police.
News Release: SE3251/2000
18 Dec 2000