Ulster Unionist Infrastructure spokesperson John Stewart MLA has expressed his concerns at proposed cuts to rural and ‘socially necessary’ bus routes due to budgetary pressures.
John Stewart MLA said:
“I share the concerns of many people at reports that Translink may be poised to cut a number of ‘unprofitable’ bus services by 2020 due to a lack of funding.
“I am particularly concerns at the Department for Infrastructure’s reported comments that rural and ‘socially necessary’ routes would be hardest hit.
“This could affect whole swathes of Northern Ireland and would have a major impact on the elderly and young families who do not have access to a car. The loss of bus routes would increase social isolation and loneliness and potentially affect the mental health and well-being of people.
“I fully understand that departments are having to operate under severe budgetary constraints and that difficult decisions need to be taken.
“This is the type of situation is a perfect example of why we need to get Stormont back up and running, with local Ministers in place and local MLAs fighting to protect services and budgets. That is exactly why I got involved in politics in the first place.
“Hard decisions will still need to be taken regarding budgets but Stormont should be having an input.”