Irish Rail Eliminates Gender Titles in Online Booking System

Irish Rail has announced a significant update to its online train booking system, removing the requirement for passengers to declare their gender. This change, which will take effect in the coming months, aims to enhance inclusivity following feedback from the LGBTQ+ community regarding gender representation in transportation.

The decision stems from a survey conducted by Irish Rail in collaboration with Belong To LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland. The survey aimed to gather insights on the travel experiences and preferences of LGBTQ+ individuals. Out of the 68 adults who participated, a diverse range of identities was represented, with over half identifying as gay, 27 percent as bisexual, 12 percent as lesbian, 16 percent as transgender, and 14 percent as non-binary.

Currently, when booking a ticket online, passengers must select a title—either Mr, Mrs, or Ms—before entering their name. The new system will allow travelers to enter only their names, streamlining the process and making it more accessible.

The survey was distributed through the official channels of both Irish Rail and Belong To, and it is important to note that it was not conducted by an independent polling organization. As part of their commitment to the community, Irish Rail made a donation of €5,000 to Belong To.

An Irish Rail spokeswoman expressed that this initiative provided valuable insights into the experiences of LGBTQ+ rail users. “This approach allowed Iarnród Éireann to gain meaningful insights into the experiences of LGBTQ+ rail users and directly contribute to the delivery of important services for the community,” she stated.

In response to the survey findings, the company is taking steps to ensure that LGBTQ+ passengers feel safe and welcomed on their journeys. The survey results indicated that 71 percent of respondents feel safe most of the time while using public transport. Notably, nearly 40 percent reported that they found rail services to be more inclusive than other transportation options. Furthermore, over one-third of participants mentioned that they had utilized trains to attend LGBTQ+ events, including Pride festivals.

This decision by Irish Rail marks a progressive step towards fostering a more inclusive environment for all travelers. By eliminating gender titles in its online booking system, the company is responding directly to the needs and preferences of a diverse community, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their travel experience without the constraints of traditional gender classifications.