SDLP Assembly Member for Newry and Armagh, Justin McNulty, has branded Chris Hazzard’s announcement that he has ordered Translink to improve rail services as a “pre-election stun,.” and he said the Minister’s statement lacks detail.
Mr McNulty claimed the Minister’s statement lacks detail and that his “vague announcement for Newry” contained no details on what additional services he proposed for the city.
“The Minister was prepared to announce an hourly service between Belfast and Derry although the lack of detail is astonishing,” said the SDLP Assembly Member.
“The people of Newry, south Armagh and south Down deserve better. I cannot remember the last time an evening train from Dublin actually got into Newry on time.
“At a time when we see the UK Government announce £56 billion in HS2: North West and Yorkshire rail service, I want to know exactly what Chris Hazzard has planned for the Belfast – Dublin rail service.
“This Executive has failed to prioritise rail investment, it has withdrawn services from Newry and it’s time they listened to the concerns and demands of the people of this area for a viable rail service from Newry to both Belfast and Dublin.”