Late night Fleadh trains back to Derry and bus special from Foyle Street welcomed
Sinn Féin MLA Ciara Ferguson has welcomed confirmation from Translink that additional late night trains to Derry will be laid on for those attending Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast next month.
Over half a million people are expected to travel to Belfast for the eight-day celebration of Irish music and culture between Sunday, August 2, and Sunday, August 9.
Ms. Ferguson said she had been contacted by constituents seeking clarity on what additional public transport is being put on to allow people from Derry to attend, particularly train timetabling and late night options.
The local MLA contacted Translink, who have now advised that additional late night trains from Belfast to Derry will be running on Sunday, August 2, and from Thursday, August 6, to Sunday, August 9.
"Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is the largest global celebration of Irish traditional music, song, dance and culture and this year is being hosted in Belfast from the August 2-9.
“People from Derry and the wider North West have been in touch with me seeking clarity on what additional public transport is being put on to allow them to attend - particularly train timetabling and late night options.
“Following representations I made to Translink I am pleased to secure confirmation today that additional trains to Derry ex-Belfast will run during this period as follows:
“Sunday, August 2, 11.25pm.
“Thursday, August 6, 11.10pm
“Friday, August 7, 11.10pm
“Saturday, August 9, 11.10pm
“Sunday, August 10, 11.25 pm
“The regular timetable will operate during the period Monday, August 3 to Wednesday, August 5, inclusive,” said Mrs. Ferguson.
Translink is also running a bus special from Foyle Street to Belfast on Sunday, August 9.
The Fleadh bus will leave Derry at 1.30pm and return to the city at midnight.
For more information and to book tickets visit https://www.translink.co.uk/using-translink/special-events/fleadh
Translink has reminded everyone travelling into Belfast during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, to plan ahead, leave extra time for journeys and expect bus and train services to be very busy.
The public is encouraged to visit www.translink.co.uk/fleadh and download the Translink JourneyPlanner app to keep up to date with key public transport information.