TUV leader Jim Allister MLA today met with Translink representatives Mr Mal McGreevy, the General Manager of Rail Services and Mr Hilton Parr, Customer Services Manager. Mr Allister welcomed plans to improve the railway service to and from Coleraine to Belfast by offering customers an hourly service and congratulated NI Railways for having realised an increase of customer use of 130% in recent years. 

During the meeting Mr Allister also availed of the opportunity to quiz the Translink delegation on their company policy which prohibits the wearing of arm bands commemorating local men who are servicing and have served in Afghanistan. Mr Allister was assured that his concerns would be relayed to the Chief Executive of the organisation and that he could expect his concerns to be addressed at the highest level of the organisation.

Commenting on the meeting Mr Allister stated:

“I welcome the continued development of Northern Ireland Railway. I am particularly impressed with the company’s plans to improve the current service from Coleraine to Belfast and vice versa. With extortionate fuel prices an improved rail service can offer North Antrim travellers an alternative form of transport that could prove to be less expensive and just as convenient as travelling by car.

“I was also pleased to be afforded an opportunity to express my concerns regarding the company’s prohibition of the wearing of arm bands dedicated to the Royal Irish Regiment. I look forward to the company’s Chief Executive addressing these concerns.”