Translink have launched an initiative called Bus and Train Week to encourage the use of public transport in Northern Ireland.
The scheme will run from June 6 to 12, and will include special events and activities taking place with a number of local authorities, community organisations and business representatives involved.
At the launch in Belfast, Chris Conway, CEO of Translink, talked about value of public transport to Northern Ireland:
“Translink is focused on providing integrated public transport, to enable a thriving Northern Ireland. Public transport is essential for a modern progressive region, with research indicating that every £1 spent on public transport contributes £4 to the wider economy.
“Buses and trains support local communities in cities and towns across Northern Ireland. They drive economic growth and social inclusion, reduce congestion, get people to work and education, and benefit the environment.”
“Customers will benefit from a range of discounted fares in addition to our everyday value tickets across all of our services, and an exciting programme of events is planned. So we are asking people and organisations to ‘Get On Board’ Bus and Train Week 2016 and help us promote the many benefits of public transport.
“In particular we would love for people who don’t normally take the bus or train to give it a try, so they too can see the benefits for themselves.”
Pete Snodden, who launched the initiative alongside Pamela Ballantine and Stephen Clements, added: “As an ‘early bird’ on the radio traffic isn’t usually something I have to worry about. However, every day listeners to the show tell us about their frustration of sitting in traffic on their way to work.
“So when Translink challenged me to document a typical commute at rush hour, both by train and by car from my home in Bangor, I couldn’t say no! So join me and ‘Get On Board’ for Bus and Train Week 2016 – keep an eye out for my experience which will be released in the coming weeks.”
