15/04/2026
Translink Fares Frozen for Second Consecutive Year
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced that Translink fares will remain unchanged for a second year running, despite the significant financial pressures currently impacting the public transport network.
This decision aims to provide much-needed certainty for passengers who rely on bus and rail services for work, education, and access to essential services during a period of rising fuel and living costs.
Minister Kimmins explained her reasoning: "In the current context of rising fuel and oil prices, I do not believe it would be right to increase public transport fares and place further pressure on workers and families. Many people rely on buses and trains every day and keeping fares stable helps provide some certainty at a very challenging time."
The Minister acknowledged that this freeze was determined against a difficult funding backdrop.
"I am fully aware of the financial pressures facing Translink and the wider public sector. This is an extremely constrained budget environment and there are no easy choices. Freezing fares for a second year has required careful consideration," she added.
Highlighting the importance of public transport to the economy and local communities, Minister Kimmins noted the positive trend in passenger numbers.
"Public transport remains a key part of our economy and our communities with growing passenger numbers showing strong demand. Holding fares at current levels supports that momentum, while recognising the very real cost pressures people are facing elsewhere. I hope this decision will make public transport an affordable commuting option especially as petrol and diesel prices continue to rise."
Looking ahead, the Minister confirmed she will continue to work closely with Translink as the financial situation evolves.
"I will keep working with Translink to manage these pressures responsibly and to ensure the best possible services within the funding available."
This decision aims to provide much-needed certainty for passengers who rely on bus and rail services for work, education, and access to essential services during a period of rising fuel and living costs.
Minister Kimmins explained her reasoning: "In the current context of rising fuel and oil prices, I do not believe it would be right to increase public transport fares and place further pressure on workers and families. Many people rely on buses and trains every day and keeping fares stable helps provide some certainty at a very challenging time."
The Minister acknowledged that this freeze was determined against a difficult funding backdrop.
Highlighting the importance of public transport to the economy and local communities, Minister Kimmins noted the positive trend in passenger numbers.
"Public transport remains a key part of our economy and our communities with growing passenger numbers showing strong demand. Holding fares at current levels supports that momentum, while recognising the very real cost pressures people are facing elsewhere. I hope this decision will make public transport an affordable commuting option especially as petrol and diesel prices continue to rise."
Looking ahead, the Minister confirmed she will continue to work closely with Translink as the financial situation evolves.
"I will keep working with Translink to manage these pressures responsibly and to ensure the best possible services within the funding available."
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28 February 2022
Infrastructure Minister Freezes Public Transport Fares
Bus and train fares have been frozen due to the ongoing cost of living crises, Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has announced. Making the announcement, Minister Nichola Mallon said that she recognises the impact that inflation is having on the cost of living for the citizens of Northern Ireland as consumer prices rose on average by 5.
Infrastructure Minister Freezes Public Transport Fares
Bus and train fares have been frozen due to the ongoing cost of living crises, Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has announced. Making the announcement, Minister Nichola Mallon said that she recognises the impact that inflation is having on the cost of living for the citizens of Northern Ireland as consumer prices rose on average by 5.
20 October 2023
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Dept Of Infrastructure To Address Rail Fares Across NI
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Translink Price Hikes In Effect
Increases to prices across Translink's services have come into effect, following two years of being frozen. Most Metro fares have increased by 10p, while Ulsterbus journeys have increased on average by 4% and NI Railways 4.5%. The increase in prices is above the rate of inflation.
24 April 2012
Calls For Translink Not To Drift Into Deficit
Alliance Regional Development spokesperson Stewart Dickson MLA has called on the Department for Regional Development to not let Translink drift into deficit. Translink is expected to make a £2 million profit this year but a £22 million deficit over the two years after that.
Calls For Translink Not To Drift Into Deficit
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