Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:01 pm on 14 May 2019.
The issue of train overcrowding has been brought to my attention by concerned staff working for Transport for Wales. I know from my own experience that packed carriages during rush hour can be absolute hell. I've been informed that there have been occasions where a guard has refused to take a train further due to severe overcrowding. Now, apart from being dangerous for passengers, it's also leading to heated confrontations with staff, who often bear the brunt of considerable frustration and anger. My contact says, and I quote:
It is a serious concern and I believe that it's only a matter of time before someone is seriously hurt either through accident or anger.
Now, I know that the set-up is a new one, but this has to be dealt with by this Labour Government. Do you agree that safety is paramount? And can we have a statement from the transport Minister to this Senedd setting out that he is aware of these issues and that he is taking swift action to ensure that our trains are safe for passengers, safe for staff and worthy of a developed country in the twenty-first century?