Irish Rail commuters in the west of the country were left with long delays earlier today after a truck driver ploughed through a descending level crossing barrier.
Friday morning services to and from Westport in Mayo were affected after the incident at Bellacagher in Roscommon.
In a video, uploaded by Irish Rail, we can see the lowering barrier begin its descent as a train approaches.
However, within seconds, a truck smashes through the barrier and continues across the level crossing.
Irish Rail called on the public to act safely and responsibly at level crossings.
Many people vented their frustration and anger in the replies.
One man said: "As a stationmaster, I stood countless times with ropes and flags whilst engineers replaced barriers knocked down by road users. It causes train delays as the rail signals are locked to red when there’s no barrier and drivers have to be talked past them. Throw the book at them."
Another added: "Should be charged with dangerous driving I’ve never seen court reports involving these “incidents”. Are drivers ever prosecuted? A pedestrian could be killed or seriously injured by the flying barriers."
While a third said: "This truck driver should never be allowed to drive again. It wasn't an accident. They gambled with people's lives to save a few minutes."
