Belfast Bus Services Facing Cutbacks

There has been swift reaction to news of fewer bus services and a reduction in the number of full-time drivers.

These are among cost cutting measures being introduced by Translink, the holding company for NIR, Metro and Ulsterbus, who said today that it will announce more details of what routes will be affected next week.

However, cuts to services in Belfast are expected and there will be other changes "across the network", but, while frequency is being reduced, Translink has said no routes will be cancelled when the changes are introduced on 1 September.

The Alliance Regional Development spokesperson Stewart Dickson MLA has already stated this morning that he will be seeking a meeting with Translink over their proposals to reduce the frequency of some of their bus services.

The MLA said: "Translink has already appeared before the Regional Development Committee but I will be seeking a meeting with them to discuss their proposed reduction in services.

"Any cuts in services will have a major impact on commuters, the elderly and also those in rural areas.

"People will be forced back into using cars, which could be expensive for families given the current high price of fuel," he said.

"The Government has targets to get more people to use public transport but if there are fewer buses then people will not be enticed to use them.

"If the Government is serious about their commitments to people using public transport then they need to ensure that Translink is financially supported to ensure the continuation of an effective service," he continued.

"Public transport offers a vital service in many communities and I fear that the most vulnerable will be the ones who suffer the most."

Upper Bann DUP MLA Stephen Moutray has also expressed his concern at the proposed cuts in services announced by Translink.

The Upper Bann MLA who is also a member of the NI Assembly Regional Development Committee said: "This announcement comes when we are trying to encourage more people to use public transport. It also comes at a time when fuel costs have risen dramatically forcing more and more people to consider getting out of their cars and onto public transport.

"Elderly people or parents of young children often depend upon regular bus services to maintain any kind of mobility.

"This announcement could have a significant negative impact upon such people and I would ask that every possible alternative is considered before any service is reduced in any such area," he said, this afternoon.

(BMcC/GK)