The publishing of the Railway Investment Prioritisation Strategy by Ulster Unionist Minister Danny Kennedy has been welcomed by his Party colleagues.
The Strategy sets out the Transport Minister’s vision for the future of railway investment over the next 20 years and beyond.
Sandra Overend, Mid Ulster Assembly Member and Assembly Private Secretary for DRD, said
“Danny Kennedy has made huge strides in improving and modernising Northern Ireland’s transport network and the Railway Investment Prioritisation Strategy offers an exciting and ambitious vision for the future.
“With increasing numbers of people making public transport their first choice when making a journey, it is fantastic to see a strategy that matches this growing enthusiasm.
“From my own local perspective I am delighted to see that a Mid Ulster rail link could become a reality in the future. This would undoubtedly be a boost for the local economy and would increase the opportunities for the local rural community to access jobs and services in the east of the province.
“While in the current period of restraint in public expenditure, available resources are targeted at sustaining the current rail system and developing it where there is greatest potential for further passenger growth, but this strategy demonstrates the exciting thinking and enthusiasm for the future of the rail network in Northern Ireland.
Danny Kinahan, South Antrim MLA said:
“A rail link to the International Airport is a very exciting prospect and could be a real game changer as it would increase the travel choices available to tourists and those commuting via the International Airport. Such a rail link would bring us in line with other modern, major cities, so I am glad to hear that the Minister will be giving consideration to this idea.
“This strategy shows Danny Kennedy’s ambition and vision to make sure Northern Ireland has a rail network fit for the twenty first century.
Tom Elliott, MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone said:
“The possible extension of the rail network to Dungannon will be welcome news to the rural community in the west of the province. This would increase the opportunities for tourists to visit the west of the Bann, boosting the local economy. It would also provide more options to local people when travelling to Belfast for work or leisure.
“Of course how quickly this Strategy can be progressed will depend on the amount of funding available from the Executive’s budget, but I hope that Danny will be supported in achieving this vision which would greatly benefit the people of Northern Ireland.