DART security alert system receiving dozens of passenger texts each month
by Stephen McNeiceFireworks being set off on-board, passengers drinking and taking drugs and people urinating on platforms are some of the alerts sent to DART security staff.
145 texts were sent over a three-month period after the monitored alert system was introduced in August.
More than a third of passengers complained about anti-social behaviour involving groups of teenagers, the Irish Times reports.
Barry Kenny from Irish Rail said 'large groups being intimidating' remains one of the biggest concerns for DART users, and that has been reflected in the text alerts.
He explained: "It isn't a situation where there's a violent situation, but nonetheless... we recognise how intimidating that can be.
"We're ensuring that our security personnel are addressing these issues as they're reported."
Mr Kenny said there are often situations when an alert is sent, but the passengers involved would get off the train shortly after.
However, he stressed that the company is ready to deploy security teams 'immediately' when needed.
He added that they're hoping to expand the alert system to Commuter train services in early 2020.
Anyone who sees something that concerns them on a DART or is the victim of an incident can text TRAIN to 51444.
The text alerts the DART security centre and allows them to dispatch roving security teams - or, where appropriate, alert gardaí.