Translink Needs Better Promotion: MLA

There must be better and more effective promotion of public transport in NI.

That's according to the Alliance party's Regional Development Spokesperson, Trevor Lunn.

The MLA has said both the Stormont Government and the company, Translink needs to promote public transport more effectively.

He made his comments following research showing that the number of journeys on Translink fell by 2.5m in 2009-10 from that of the number in 2008-09.

He said action needs to be taken after holding company Translink reported much fewer journeys were made on the company's services.

The independent research showed that overall passenger numbers for NI Railways, Ulsterbus and Metro fell from 80.7m in 2008 - 9 to 78.2m in 2009 - 10, although satisfaction levels were good, as it also showed 84.3% of Ulsterbus travellers were satisfied with the service.

Despite the fall in the number of users, Translink's Ciaran Rogan said it was "a great set of results".

"Both NI Railways and Ulsterbus have met 'on time' targets and our customers tell us they recognise the good work done in terms of value for money and staff helpfulness.

"These results show why more car drivers are choosing the bus and train; avoiding expensive fuel and parking charges. We will continue to invest in and improve our services to give hassle-free, great value choices," he said today.

NI Railways achieved an 84% satisfaction rate, representing an increase of 6.2% on the previous year. Satisfaction with Belfast's Metro service fell from the previous year by 1.1% to 80.9%.

Howeber, MLA Trevor Lunn said: "We need to do far more to encourage more people to leave the car at home and take the bus or the train.

"Potential measures to increase the use of public transport could include better deals for consumers or a stronger, more concentrated advertising campaign.

"I know that much work has gone into trying to get more people onto public transport but these figures are deeply disappointing and we need to redouble our efforts here.

"I believe that if we provide more incentives like cheaper deals for passengers we can really make a positive difference. The benefits of getting more people to use public transport are very clear - protecting our environment, reducing traffic congestion and enabling the growth of our public transport network."

(BMcC/KMcA)