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I don't think those concerned have any real desire to provide a train service over the Christmas period. Although privatisation is partly responsible, it can't be blamed entirely as for many years negotiated work arrangements have strived to eliminate Christmas working wherever possible. I know, to some, that it sounds heartless but a public transport system for the masses can only be provided by inconveniencing those that work in it. This has long been accepted in many parts of Europe and travelling at Christmas (and on Sundays for that matter) is no different than at any other time.
The fact that major engineering work is often carried out over the Christmas period is irrelevant. Engineering work in some parts of the country is no reason to stop Christmas services nationwide. If passenger flows indicate that Christmas is genuinely the best time to do a certain engineering job, then by all means do it but if not, do it some other time.
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