Freeze On Fares Is Fine: MLA

A South Antrim MLA has said that he is delighted that Translink are keeping rail and bus fares at 2010 levels.

Danny Kinahan, the Ulster Unionist politician said: "Public transport that is affordable and reliable is essential to the development of our local economy – never more so that in the current economic climate.

"I am pleased with Translink's decision and feel that while prices seem to be increasing across the board, but particularly for the motorist, public transport can offer a very acceptable alternative.

"Getting more people to switch to public transport is great for the environment but it needs to take them where they want to go at times that suit.

"We all like the idea of being Greener, but the reality is that our choices often boil down to good value for money.

"Translink have made a very responsible decision and I hope they reap a significant increase in passengers – which will ultimately benefit us all," he said.

Safe Travel

Mr Kinahan continued on anotehr related issue: "I also welcome the work that Translink has done with Department of Regional Development (DRD) in helping to launch the Travel Safe Guide for people with learning difficulties."

His comments were echoed by David Brown, Commercial and Services Director for Translink who said: "We are committed to making our services more accessible to everyone and were delighted to work with DRD to develop this new guide for people with learning difficulties.

"Thanks to ongoing investment by the Minister and his Department over recent years, new vehicles, stations, better passenger information and employee training now mean even more people with particular needs can participate more fully in society, enjoy greater independence and experience a better quality of life.

"We hope our new Travel Safe Guide together with our Translink Access Guide, which provides travel advice specifically for people with all disabilities, will encourage more people to choose the bus and train as their preferred way to travel," he concluded.

(BMcC)