The proposed Regional Transport Strategy – unveiled by Minister Peter Robinson on Monday - has come under fire from Sinn Fein MLA Pat McNamee for its failure to address the needs of those without adequate access to health services.

Speaking in response to the consultation paper, the Sinn Fein Regional Development Spokesperson said that he believed the "major issue" of access to hospitals had been overlooked by the report.

Mr McNamee stated: "For people living in isolated communities, the lack of adequate public transport and the poor condition of much of the rural roads network severely affect their access to hospital services.

"Apart from the wider concerns about the imbalance between public transport in general and private car use, the truth is that if health is to be made a priority, that all key strategic decisions should be made with access to service in mind."

SDLP Spokesperson for Regional Development, Joe Byrne MLA, welcomed the publication of the report as marking "a positive step" towards the development of an accessible, sustainable and efficient transport network.

He continued: "It contains many constructive initiatives to improve public transport such as an integrated ticket system, a pilot rapid transit system, quality bus corridors and demand-responsive transport services in rural areas."

However, Mr Byrne warned against possible complacency when implementing changes in strategy, and urged Mr Robinson to place greater emphasis on focusing policy "within an all-Ireland context" and to not consider the province in isolation.

He added: "The Department and the Minister cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past which have marred transport planning in the North." (CL)