Irish Rail Passenger Describes Overheated Train Journey During May Heatwave

A passenger on an Irish Rail train from Dublin to Rosslare Europort experienced extreme heat during a record-breaking heatwave in late May. She reported that a diesel commuter-style train was used instead of the usual Intercity service, and it was already crowded as the final service of the evening. Passengers initially didn't realize the train itself was overheating, but temperatures rose significantly, causing visible lethargy and discomfort, with small children reportedly asleep or passed out.

Irish Rail staff boarded at Rathdrum, appearing shocked by the conditions. At Arklow station, staff distributed bottled water and advised passengers to formally complain, acknowledging the situation was unacceptable. The passenger filed a complaint but received a response that she felt placed responsibility on passengers for not moving carriages, despite the crowding and lack of information about a heating fault. The response stated, «Each carriage has a separate HVAC unit and where one may be faulty another carriage may be more comfortable for you,» and declined a refund, apologizing for discomfort.

Irish Rail later stated there was an unforeseen technical issue with the HVAC system; while the air-conditioning failed, the system was not producing heat but continued to provide ventilation. They noted on-board staff responded quickly, accommodating passengers in alternative carriages where possible, making announcements, and distributing water. The company apologized for the inconvenience, adding that the particular carriage required a full replacement of the HVAC module, which has since been completed.