O’Dowd prefers officials to be present at talks between Translink and Into the West

Foyle MLA Sinéad McLaughlin asked the minister if a meeting can ‘take place between an elected representative, Translink and Into the West without Department officials present’.

Mr. O’Dowd said: “I am ambitious for our rail network and I am committed to addressing regional imbalance by improving connectivity to the North West area. I, along with my officials, have engaged with Into the West with respect to our ambitions for the North West.

"While meetings can take place between political representatives, Into the West and Translink without officials present, I am keen for my officials to be involved in any discussions relating to improving rail connections in the region to ensure that we can continue to work collaboratively on this important issue.”