Derry bus and train fares to remain frozen as households face rising fuel costs
Bus and train fares are to remain frozen for the second consecutive year despite significant ‘financial pressures across the public transport system’, Liz Kimmins has announced.
The Infrastructure Minister confirmed Foyle Metro, Ulsterbus, Goldliner and NI Rail tickets will not rise.
The decision comes, she said, at a time when households are facing rising fuel and living costs and when public transport continues to play a vital role in helping people get to work, education and essential services.
Minister Kimmins said: “In the current context of rising fuel and oil prices, I do not believe it would be right to increase public transport fares and place further pressure on workers and families. Many people rely on buses and trains every day and keeping fares stable helps provide some certainty at a very challenging time.”
She said the decision was taken against a difficult backdrop.
“I am fully aware of the financial pressures facing Translink and the wider public sector. This is an extremely constrained budget environment and there are no easy choices. Freezing fares for a second year has required careful consideration,” she declared.
She added: "Public transport remains a key part of our economy and our communities with growing passenger numbers showing strong demand. Holding fares at current levels supports that momentum, while recognising the very real cost pressures people are facing elsewhere. I hope this decision will make public transport an affordable commuting option especially as petrol and diesel prices continue to rise.”
Minister Kimmins said she will continue to engage closely with Translink as the financial situation evolves.