Chair Denounces Increases as "Unfare"

Chair to the Committee for Regional Development has today denounced Translink and the Department for Regional Development for the 5% increase to bus and rail fares announced this evening.

Committee Chairperson Mr Trevor Clarke MLA, said, “The Committee will be aghast at this announcement and at the underhand way that Translink has brought these in.  There has been no consultation with the Committee, no consultation with stakeholders and, most importantly, no consultation with passengers. 

We are in the middle of a process of discussion on the draft budget, which they have ignored.  We are in the lead up to Christmas, a critical time for retailers and shoppers alike, which they have ignored.  At a time when we are asking so many of our citizens to tighten their belts, Translink increases fares to fatten their already substantial reserves.

I will, therefore, be seeking an urgent meeting with the Minister for Regional Development and the Chief Executive of Translink on this matter to ensure that this blatant attack on passengers reliant on public transport ceases immediately”.

ENDS

Committee Membership:

Chairperson of the Committee is Trevor Clarke MLA
Deputy Chairperson is Sean Lynch MLA

The Committee has a further nine members:

Joe Byrne MLA
John Dallat MLA
Alex Easton MLA
Ross Hussey MLA
Chris Lyttle MLA
Declan McAleer MLA
David McNarry MLA
Stephen Moutray MLA
Cathal Ó hOisín MLA