Concerns over possible reduction in Translink transport services in Mid Ulster
Concern has been raised that Translink may be planning to reduce its transport offer in the area, and particularly so in rural districts, as a cost-saving exercise.
Independent Councillor Dan Kerr aired his fears at the July monthly meeting of Mid Ulster District Council, in relation to a public consultation exercise being conducted by Translink on a range of potential changes to services and fares.
The transport provider makes it clear, in an introductory piece explaining the rationale behind the consultation exercise, that it is facing major challenges, saying: “Public transport is currently facing significant financial pressures.
“While we have worked hard to manage costs and grow passenger numbers, reductions in funding in real terms mean we must consider options to ensure the long-term sustainability of the network.”
A separate Translink document, called ‘Bus and Rail Evening Service Adjustments’, paints a similar picture: “Based on the draft budget, Translink is currently projecting a material loss in the current financial year, which would leave the organisation in an unsustainable financial position.
“As such, it is necessary to explore the potential for changes to service frequency in the absence of a viable budget allocation to address the growing cost base and funding challenges Translink face.”
Speaking at the meeting, the Independent representative commented: “People from Translink have contacted me about this internally and are concerned about the proposals to cut the services.
“According to my source in Translink, this could be the beginning of rural services being cut in Mid Ulster District Council area, but particularly more rural areas, which could lead to isolation for people who depend on public transport. So, I think it’s important that we do respond to that.
“The person also would like a delegation of trade unionists to come in from the different unions to give their views, because they believe that it’s not a fair representation whenever it’s just the bosses making decisions.
“They also want to give a view on how it’ll affect them in the more isolated rural areas. Can we make that a proposal?”
The proposal was seconded by Councillor Denise Johnston (SDLP, Moyola DEA).
Chief Executive, Adrian McCreesh informed the Torrent representative: “We obviously have to respond in the remit of the corporate body that is Mid Ulster District Council. Other corporate bodies, individual bodies including trade unions, will be preparing their own responses, as will political parties.
“We can engage, but the concept of bringing external bodies in to prepare our response is not something that we have the resources to do.”
In light of the Chief Executive’s remarks. Cllr Kerr asked for the council’s response to include an appeal for strong engagement with trade unions on this issue.
The chief executive replied: “Absolutely. We’re very happy to do that and there will be a modicum of engagement, but within the resources and capacity that we have available to us.”