New transport licensing proposals could have huge social impact

NORTH Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has said that any proposed changes to Bus Operator Licensing from the Department of the Environment should not be allowed to adversely impact on the rural and community transport and the community and voluntary sector.
By The Newsroom
Published 4th Aug 2010, 18:41 BST

Mr McKay was speaking after attending a DOE consultation on draft proposals for bus operator licensing in Coleraine.

Mr McKay said: "Whilst there is little doubt that changes need to be made to some aspects of bus operator licensing the initial suggestions coming forward from DOE are fraught with difficulties and could have a devastating impact on rural and community transport.

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"It is worth pointing out that this includes minibuses used by Churches, GAA Clubs and the like so it is important that they too respond to this consultation.

"The Department themselves recognise that the introduction of a new licensing regime will impact adversely on older people, people with disabilities and those who live in rural areas. If transport schemes that these groups avail of go to the wall then there will be a huge social impact.

"The proposals that the Department have come forward with are not satisfactory and after listening to the Community and Voluntary sector they should go back to the drawing board and ensure that fresh proposals come forward which mitigate against this potential social impact."

Related topics:Sinn FeinColeraine