2 February 2007

Dear Colleagues,

You will recall that in August last year the Minister David Cairns announced that a ‘Passenger Transport Authority – type’ organisation would be set up in Northern Ireland. This was to happen by 2010 and the idea was to give local Councils more say in the design and provision of public transport. This is in line with the ongoing Review of Public Administration which will see many more responsibilities transferred from central government to local Councils and may see the number of Councils reduced.

Since then the Department for Regional Development (DRD) has started the process of identifying the broad areas of work to be addressed to set up this body in conjunction with other stakeholders such as NITHC and Translink. This includes how bus services will be regulated, who should have funding responsibility and what legislation might be required.

So far we have had some initial discussions with our Department (DRD) in order to explore how best to achieve the Minister’s stated objectives. Our Trade Union colleagues have also met the Minister and DRD officials, as have other interested parties.

The process is at a very early stage. There are still no details or decisions made about what such an organisation may look like or what its responsibilities may be, and importantly, what impact it may have on Translink.

However, I will give you 2 guarantees; firstly, I and many in Translink will be involved fully in this process with the clear objective of delivering the best public transport for Northern Ireland, building on our track record of success. Secondly, we have got into the very good habit of keeping everyone up to date and informed about what is happening. I will continue this, even if its to say, as here, that there is little new to tell you!

As always, if you have any questions, please ask your line Manager or any Executive.

Philip O'Neill

Acting Chief Executive

keeping you informed about what is happening