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19/02/2002
Robinson says new trains are ‘once in a lifetime event’
Regional Development Minister, Peter Robinson has joined the Chairman of the Northern Ireland Transport Holding Company, Joan Smyth, to announce the largest ever single investment in railway rolling stock in Northern Ireland.
Spanish company CAF were named on Tuesday February 19 as the preferred bidder for the £80 million contract for the replacement of all Class 80 trains.
Speaking at Bangor Integrated Transport Centre, where the announcement was made, Mr Robinson said: “For most of us, this is a once in a lifetime event and I feel very privileged to have played my part in bringing this about.
“Northern Ireland Railways last purchased new trains back in 1994 for the modernisation of the enterprise service and then it was only two trains. Today, we are announcing 23 new train sets.
“Investment in our public transport infrastructure is long overdue and I see this as just the beginning of our efforts to revitalise rail travel in Northern Ireland.
“The travelling public is well aware that standards of passenger comfort and the reliability of our trains in Northern Ireland falls far short of what is required.
“New rolling stock, combined with the extensive track and infrastructure programme that is being undertaken by NIR, will greatly enhance the experience of rail travel and I fully expect that the number of people using the trains will increase significantly in the years ahead.”
Mr Robinson went on to outline that the announcement was as a result of a rigorous procurement process undertaken by NIR following the recommendations of the Railways Taskforce in late 2000.
He added: “It seems quite a while since the findings of the Railways Taskforce were made known, but those of you who are familiar with the rail industry will know that major projects such as this must be meticulously planned to ensure we get best value for money from scarce resources."
The procurement process for the purchase of 23 new Diesel Multiple Units (DMU) was overseen by a Rolling Stock Strategy Group comprised of NITHC / NIR management and staff, Departmental officials and consultancy expertise from the rail industry.
(MB)
Spanish company CAF were named on Tuesday February 19 as the preferred bidder for the £80 million contract for the replacement of all Class 80 trains.
Speaking at Bangor Integrated Transport Centre, where the announcement was made, Mr Robinson said: “For most of us, this is a once in a lifetime event and I feel very privileged to have played my part in bringing this about.
“Northern Ireland Railways last purchased new trains back in 1994 for the modernisation of the enterprise service and then it was only two trains. Today, we are announcing 23 new train sets.
“Investment in our public transport infrastructure is long overdue and I see this as just the beginning of our efforts to revitalise rail travel in Northern Ireland.
“The travelling public is well aware that standards of passenger comfort and the reliability of our trains in Northern Ireland falls far short of what is required.
“New rolling stock, combined with the extensive track and infrastructure programme that is being undertaken by NIR, will greatly enhance the experience of rail travel and I fully expect that the number of people using the trains will increase significantly in the years ahead.”
Mr Robinson went on to outline that the announcement was as a result of a rigorous procurement process undertaken by NIR following the recommendations of the Railways Taskforce in late 2000.
He added: “It seems quite a while since the findings of the Railways Taskforce were made known, but those of you who are familiar with the rail industry will know that major projects such as this must be meticulously planned to ensure we get best value for money from scarce resources."
The procurement process for the purchase of 23 new Diesel Multiple Units (DMU) was overseen by a Rolling Stock Strategy Group comprised of NITHC / NIR management and staff, Departmental officials and consultancy expertise from the rail industry.
(MB)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
