Travelling by train this winter? Bring a cosy coat.

Irish Rail has announced that they will be leaving the windows open on a quarter of their trains in an effort to prevent the spread of Covid-19 on public transport.

One in four of Irish Rail’s older carriages do not have air conditioning, so the windows will be opened manually and will remain open throughout the journey to keep fresh air circulating inside.

Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning, Irish Rail spokesperson Barry Kenny said that the extra step will bolster a number of safely measures currently in place on trains, including reduced capacity, social distancing and mandatory mask-wearing.

Gardaí are also assisting with Level 3 measures in stations and on board.

“Obviously, the key measures remain the same on public transport – wear face coverings, only sit on the unmarked seats, and retain distance,” said Mr Kenny.

“This is an additional guidance to customers. Obviously, there will be days when the weather conspires against this, but we are into a season where people will be wrapping up I suppose more usually when they commute.”

Mr Kenny reminded passengers that during Level 3 restrictions, passengers should avoid all but essential travel.