5 March 2002
MINISTER WELCOMES NEW BUS CENTRE FOR MAGHERAFELT
The opening of the new Magherafelt Buscentre was welcomed today by Regional Development Minister, Peter Robinson, MP, MLA.
He said it was another step towards an improved Public Transport system and congratulated Translink’s management and staff on the new modern facility which has replaced the station destroyed in 1993.
Mr Robinson said: "This is another good news day for public transport and I am sure this new, modern facility in Magherafelt can help attract more bus passengers.
"An improved public transport system is fundamental in improving the overall quality of life for the general public. It can bring about a modal shift from the car, relieve congestion on our roads and reduce the damage that transport causes to our environment. It can also lead to improved access to job opportunities and social amenities.
Mr Robinson said that today’s official opening is another step in the struggle to redress the balance after decades of under funding in Public Transport infrastructure.
He said: "Against a backdrop of decades of under funding, I have repeatedly pressed the case for additional funding for Public Transport.
"Today’s official opening of the new Buscentre in Magherafelt is just one example of what can be achieved if we remain focused on this goal.
"Translink has opened integrated bus and rail passenger centres in Coleraine and Bangor within the past year and I would hope that funding can be found to upgrade other dedicated bus stations.
"Buses carry the bulk of those who use public transport and it is only right that facilities should be provided accordingly.
"We are also striding forward with improvements on the railways. In the past fortnight we have announced 23 new trains for Northern Ireland Railways and an extensive track and infrastructure improvement programme has been undertaken over the past couple of years."
For further information contact Eamon Deeny on 028 9054 0004
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