Support for Down Community Transport

Support for Down Community Transport

4 June 2025

DOWN Community Transport has received a much-needed funding boost from the Department for Infrastructure.

Stormont minister, Liz Kimmins, last week said she was prioritising community transport and was increasing finance to protect services which are literally a lifeline to many in the district who live in rural areas.

The cash boost — announced in the Assembly on Tuesday of last week — has been welcomed by South Down MLA Cathy Mason.

She said services like the Downpatrick-based Down Community 

Transport are the “backbone of rural areas” and enable people to visit loved ones, access health services and play a full active role in their communities.

She commended Ms Kimmins for her decision and those who continue to operate community transport services, helping to support the elderly and families.

“Community transport plays a positive role in our society and Sinn Féin will continue to support these organisations, their workers and those who rely on their services,” Mrs Mason added.

The DfI minister said final decisions on her Department’s 2025-26 budget will be confirmed following consideration of the response to the equality consultation, but made it clear on the need to protect this valuable transport service.

“I have met with representatives of the community transport sector, heard from users about the real impact these services can have on individuals, not just in our towns and cities but also on the roads less travelled,” she said.

“They improve access to goods and services, facilitate independence and vital connections and also they allow people to contribute to local communities and economies.”

Ms Kimmins described the community transport service as a “valuable lifeline” for many in local communities.

“Since becoming Minister, I have focused on ensuring that people are at the heart of everything we do and I will continue to put the resources in place to allow my department to deliver the quality of services that everyone deserves,” she continued.

“I acknowledge that employment and other costs across the sector have risen significantly over the last couple of years.”

The DfI minister added: “To mitigate against these increases and to protect these vital services, I intend to increase the level of funding available to the community transport operators, that will enable them to deliver these vital services in 2025/26.”