Bus from Erneto Altnagelvin

The service is made possible by the Department for Regional Development’s (DRD) Rural Transport Fund and helps make an important contribution to reducing social exclusion in rural areas.

Minister for Transport Danny Kennedy said: “I welcome the introduction of this pilot scheme, which will be supported from my Department’s Rural Transport Fund and will provide a transport option for the rural dwellers of Fermanagh and Tyrone who need to travel to Altnagelvin hospital.

“I am pleased that statutory agencies, community organisations and Translink were able to work closely together to develop a service which will be of great benefit to users.”

Michelle Rafferty, Rural Transport Development Manager said: “It is especially helpful for anyone attending hospital appointments and also improves service integration, helping passengers make onward connections.

“We would encourage local people to take advantage of this service, which provides value for money. Adult cash single fares are available at £11.00, return fares at £16.50 or alternatively switch to Smartlink for great savings on bus travel. People with a valid SmartPass can travel for free or half fare.”

Departing from Enniskillen Buscentre at 9am and 11am, the service also calls at the new South West Acute Hospital, Omagh Buscentre, Strabane Buscentre as well as a range of neighbouring rural locations before arriving at Altnagelvin Hospital.

Community Transport can also assist by bringing their passengers from home and linking them to the pilot service for onward travel.

The service will also stop at Ballinamallard, Irvinestown By Pass, Omagh, Newtownstewart, Sion Mills, Strabane.

Timetables are available from local bus stations or for further information visit www.translink.co.uk or call our contact centre on 028 90 66 66 30.