12 October 2007

Dear Colleagues,

It seems a long time ago that children returned to school after the summer holidays but I want to take the opportunity to thank everyone who worked hard to make the transport to school part of the day run very smoothly. Every day we carry about 65,000 children to and from school and there can be occasional difficulties - not least for our colleagues driving the buses. Credit is due for their professionalism and assistance to the many school children who rely on us.

We face a further challenge this year in getting the message across to children to use the seat belts which are provided in our new and refurbished school buses. But it is important that we do get people into the habit of wearing seatbelts - not only on school buses but also on Goldline coaches.

Of course we should lead by example if we are on a Goldline coach. Also it is worth remembering if you are driving a bus you are now also required by law to wear a seatbelt where it is provided.

If you have been around the rail network you will have noticed the speedy progress by our infrastructure colleagues upgrading stations. This work is part of a £17 million investment package and includes new signage, lighting, shelters, seating and re-surfacing and will mean greater access for disabled passengers and a better environment for all.

The job moves in the next weeks to Holywood, Adelaide, Scarva, Poyntzpass and Portadown and means some night time work and temporary closures. Of course we are working hard to keep our passengers up to date - latest information is on http://www.translink.co.uk/stationimprovementworks.asp

Philip O'Neill, Acting Chief Executive

This work is part of a £17 million investment package and includes new signage, lighting, shelters, seating and re-surfacing