Written question WQ97598

Transport for Wales and Network Rail have my full support in maintaining the safety for passengers and railway staff on the Core Valley Lines and the wider Wales and Borders railway network. I am reassured that there have not been any further incidents of cable theft since the recent very disruptive and expensive attempts and thefts in mid-September. Transport for Wales have significantly enhanced their security provision, with more patrols and working in collaboration with the British Transport Police. We continue to provide grant funding to the British Transport Police to enable them to recruit additional PCSOs and other resource to tackle anti-social behaviour on our railways, engage with local communities to promote safe railway use and to focus on the challenges of cable theft. Enforcement and fines are a non-devolved matter for the justice system, though Transport for Wales are working closely with the relevant authorities to support the ongoing investigations.