Translink says it has taken action over 76 safety-related incidents over the past year, totalling fines in excess of £9,000.

The majority of these were dealt with through the courts, the transport company said, and represent almost half of all prosecutions made by Translink over the past twelve months.

The figure is lower than it has been for several years, but Translink says the reduction can been attributed to track upgrade works between Coleraine and L'Derry.

It said the majority of level crossing misuse incidents by motorists and private crossing users take place on that stretch of track.

General Manager, Rail at Translink, Mal McGreevy, commented: "Although these figures are lower than in previous years, which is encouraging, it is likely that the reduction is due to the upgrade work carried out on the Londonderry line last year and early this year. Since the line reopened, there have been sixteen incidents of motorists attempting to beat the barrier at Castlerock and all of them may face prosecution.

"In a bid to keep rail safety to the forefront during the summer months, last month we highlighted the issue of pedestrian trespass on the rail network since the beginning of June, which by August 5 had totalled 138 incidents. We are reminding motorists and pedestrians that CCTV is in operation at stations, railway crossings and on all trains. These monitor inappropriate behavior and, in an effort to keep everyone safe, Translink will prosecute anyone caught damaging property, trespassing or endangering others.

"Safety continues to be a priority for Translink and our DEADLINE campaign is currently running to remind motorists and pedestrians of the dangers associated with the misuse of level crossings. The rules are simple – don’t use the tracks as a shortcut; on the platform always wait behind the yellow line; never mess around near the tracks; use railway crossings safely and motorists should never be tempted to jump the lights or beat the barriers at railway crossings."

(IT/CD)