Translink has announced a fare increase for bus and train passengers. Fares for Metro, NI Railways and Ulsterbus will be revised following a decision by the Department for Infrastructure.
The majority of passengers in Northern Ireland will see a 6% bus and 10% train fare increase from Monday 3 June. The fare increase will not affect cross-border bus and train fares.
Peter McClenaghan, director of infrastructure and sustainability at the Consumer Council, said the increases were a blow to public transport users, with low-income riders hit hardest. He pointed out that the fare increase contrasted with initiatives in other parts of the UK, with Translink’s increase potentially limiting the number of people using public transport.
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The fare increase comes ahead of expected disruption to public transport in Northern Ireland over the summer, with ten stations between Lisburn and Belfast Lanyon Place closing for two months and buses being used as replacements. The goal is to connect the new Grand Central Station to the rail line.
Mr McClenaghan said: “Today’s announcement that Translink will increase its average bus fares by 6% and rail by 10% is a blow to public transport users. This review follows an average fare increase of 7% for all Translink services in March 2023 and a rail fare increase in November 2023.
“This will particularly affect low-income passengers who have no option to travel other than public transport and who are already struggling with the ongoing cost of living crisis. Consumers will understand that the cost of running the public transport network has increased and that this has been caused by the freeze Funding for local public transport is being tightened by the Northern Irish government.
“Northern Ireland Government funding for public transport must be sufficient to at least maintain current levels of service, but also fund incentives to increase ridership where possible. This fare increase contrasts with initiatives elsewhere, such as England’s £2 bus fare cap and the Republic of Ireland’s 20% passenger discount (ROI), which recognise the social and environmental benefits of public transport.
“This expansion of the Translink network could limit the growth of the number of public transport users and is contrary to government policy which aims to increase the number of public transport users.”
He is calling on Translink to introduce a weekly cap on contactless payments to reduce prices for certain types of tickets.
“We welcome Translink’s stated intention to move to a flat rate fare in the Greater Belfast area as this is easier for passengers to understand,” he added.
“However, the introduction of some flat rates for certain types of tickets has led to price increases that are sometimes above average.”
“That’s why we’re urging Translink to implement solutions to offset these price increases as soon as possible, such as a weekly cap on contactless payments to help. Passengers across Northern Ireland should check they’re using the cheapest priced ticket for their ticket.” Discounted prices are available depending on how you pay for your ticket or what type of ticket you buy, such as a weekly or monthly pass.
Translink encourages its passengers to use contactless, mLink and multi-journey products to get cheap tickets. There will also continue to be a 25% discount on rail and Ulsterbus travel after 9:30am. iLink cards also offer unlimited travel in different zones of the bus and train network.
Ian Campbell, Director of Operations at Translink, also highlighted discounts for young people. He explained: “We are also maintaining the 50% discount and free access to the yLink card for all 16-23 year olds. With over 60% more yLink journeys made in the last year, this special offer will benefit many more young people.”
“We have also taken the opportunity to simplify Smartlink fares on Metro/Glider to make it easier for our customers. With Smartlink, passengers pay just £2 for each normal adult journey, saving most people over 10% compared to paying cash. DayLink, mLink and contactless day passes now cost just £4.00 for day journeys.
“We remain confident that bus and train travel remains the most attractive and cost-effective travel option, particularly when compared to the rising costs of private car travel. Combined with the many other health and wellbeing benefits that sustainable travel brings, it is also an easy option that we can all achieve.” Do our part to tackle the climate crisis and improve air quality for a more connected one Society for all.”
For more information on the best ticket for their travel needs, passengers can visit www.translink.co.uk/faresrevision.
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