Limavady on 'hit list' for reduced bus services - Dallat

The Minister for Regional Development Danny Kennedy has been called on to exercise control over Translink who are considering cuts in town bus services in 13 towns across the North.

The call comes from East Derry SDLP MLA John Dallat who said Limavady was on the "hit list."

Mr Dallat said Mr Kenendy must ensure that public transport was protected for those who relied on it, including those who could not afford cars, were retired and no longer drove as well as children and young people.

He said the Limavady town bus service also acted as an "economic generator" bringing much needed business to shops at a time when they were struggling with high rent, rates and increased competition from out-of-town shopping centres and the internet.

Mr Dallat added: 'It is a false economy to be considering cutting public transport services when the correct move is to develop an integrated transport service which would maintain public service for all including those living in rural areas that are poorly served at present.

'The minister needs to be mindful that Translink receives a very considerable amount of money from the Assembly to maintain public transport and that must include those who rely on it for whatever reason.  There are serious equality principles at stake.

'As a member of the Regional Development Committee I will be making the case for those who would be most affected by these proposals which are currently under consideration.

'I will also be seeking to protect the concessionary fares which are available to people aged between 60 and 65 which is also under threat.

'We simply cannot sit by and allow the public transport service to be dismantled in such a callous way.'

Mr Dallat continued: 'To do so would destroy the progress which was made to encourage people out of their cars onto buses and trains and to allow senior citizens the ability to get out and travel, bringing much needed business to many towns across the North.'