A FEASIBILITY study to analyse the cost of starting up a regular night train on Fridays and Saturdays is being carried out by the ministry for public works, Minister Mabel Cabrer announced yesterday.
The service was offered recently at Christmas and New Year, to considerable success. This late night train service would help stop some of the drink driving road accidents that frequently occur in Majorca, said Cabrer. She added that she would be delighted to offer this service which many town councils have been requesting.
The main problem in offering this service would be the high costs involved, as employees would have to work different shifts and there would be a need for more security personnel. Also these timetable changes would have to be included within the Majorcan Rail Services (SFM) wage agreement.
In any case this service would not make any profit, said the Minister, as the tickets cost less than normal for the young people who would mainly use the late-night service. Although it would be worth the effort if it stops road accidents.
The Minister was convinced that this service would happen sooner or later and that when it does happen, it will apply to all rail services.
In addition, in the near future a ticket that can be used on both buses and trains will go on sale, said Cabrer. The ticket is due to be developed in the Transport Plan. However, this ticket will probably not be available until the next Government's term of office, added Cabrer.