SDLP Spokesperson for Regional Development John Dallat MLA has voiced his support for public transport workers who have announced their intention to strike next month.
Describing the decision as unfortunate, Mr Dallat criticized the Transport Minister and Translink for leaving their employees with no other option.
He said: “It is unfortunate that Unite have been forced into this position once again. The brutality and lack of foresight in this budget coupled with the intransigence and of the Minister and Translink has resulted in an untenable situation for our public transport service.
“The decision to strike is never taken lightly and this second strike is a shocking indictment of the board of directors that they did not get the message the first time and clearly lack the skills to deliver effective management for such a vital aspect of our infrastructure.
“This is not a case of demanding more pay. Translink employees are deeply concerned about the future of public transport in Northern Ireland. These cuts will devastate essential services especially in rural areas where older people in particular depend on bus services to attend appointments and collect prescriptions.
“I urge the Transport Minister and Translink to listen to the legitimate concerns of their workers and take action before we face another day of chaos on the roads that will inconvenience the public and cost our economy.”
