Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:38 pm on 13 December 2022.
It is true that there have been a number of disappointing delays with bringing these new trains into service. They do include the need for Transport for Wales to rigorously ensure they're safe and they're reliable for passenger use, following some incidents during their testing. It's very unfortunate that Vivarail have entered administration, but that's obviously not the fault of Transport for Wales. They've invested significantly in the class 230 trains from Vivarail, and they have planned the additional services on the Wrexham to Bidston line on the use of these trains. I am aware that Transport for Wales are in liaison with the small number of other operators of Vivarail trains, and they're going to be discussing with them a longer term strategy on spares. I think one of the most significant challenges Transport for Wales have had, though, is the chaos caused by the UK Government's failure to resolve the industrial dispute with the rail unions. If Transport for Wales are unable to access the tracks, they can't test the trains or train their drivers on the new fleet. So, I really would urge the UK Government to step up and resolve these disputes now.