16 February 2007

Dear Colleagues,

This week the candidates for the election to the NI Assembly were finalised. The election is confirmed for the 7th March 2007. According to the timetable we should have an Executive and Ministers in place by the end of March which means local politicians will again be directly responsible for public transport in Northern Ireland.

As you would expect, my colleagues and I are regularly in touch with local politicians in relation to matters affecting Translink and this will continue after the elections – in general I think it is fair to say they are very supportive.

Clearly I cannot give any advice on who you should vote for! But I would advise you to do two things;

Firstly, be sure to vote. I think it is in all our interests that we have a locally accountable government, as it can only be more responsive to local transport needs. It is worth remembering; the last time we had a local Assembly they made decisions to invest significantly in our bus and rail networks.

And secondly, when you meet candidates or their representatives, ask them – even test them - about their commitment to and plans for public transport. These people will be making decisions very directly affecting you in the future.

Philip O'Neill

Acting Chief Executive

These people will be making decisions very directly affecting you in the future.