Ulster Unionist MLA Roy Beggs has said that whilst plans for fare increases on Translink bus and rail services are obviously unwelcome, there was some good news about public transport announced at yesterday’s DRD Committee meeting.

The East Antrim MLA said:

“Of course it is disappointing that Translink are planning 3% average fare increases, although it must be recognised that there has been no increase in public transport fares for 2 years despite hikes in fuel costs and inflation.  There is a danger that some people are talking down public transport, which could put people off using the buses and trains and that would be highly regrettable. “

In the Departmental paper which the DRD committee received yesterday there was good news about protection of public transport services in Translink’s business plans. The brief given to committee meeting said ‘(Translink) confirmed rail services will be maintained or improved on all lines.  There will be expansion of services on the following lines: Coleraine to Belfast, Whitehead to Belfast.’

The East Antrim MLA who attending the DRD Committee commented:

“From a constituency point of view I am very pleased that we have been told that a proposal to reduce rail services between Whitehead and Larne has been put on hold.  This is also the case between Coleraine and Portrush.  Translink is still working on a new timetable and is continuing to monitor usage.  This is very welcome news and will encourage increased usage of the excellent new trains which are being rolled out on the Larne line.  Faced with tight public finances, it is surely better to have modest fare increases rather than cuts to public transport services.”