THE Fine Gael leader called for a statement from the Minister for Public Enterprise, Ms O'Rourke, on the recent rail safety report.

Mr John Bruton said on the Order of Business: "Is the Tanaiste aware that the independent report on rail safety was apparently altered in the Department prior to publication? This is a very serious matter considering the concerns about rail safety."

Ms Harney said she was not aware of the allegation and suggested Mr Bruton table a question to Ms O'Rourke on the matter. Mr Bruton said the Tanaiste should inquire into the matter because of its seriousness.

Meanwhile in the Seanad, Fine Gael members called on Ms O'Rourke to explain whether the report on rail safety was really independent. Mr Fergus O'Dowd (FG) said the draft report, the final report and the executive summary of the report should be placed before the House. Party colleague Ms Madeleine Taylor- Quinn said that from information and documentation available, it was evident the report was anything but independent and substantial changes had been made.