£1.3 million investment in community transport

The £1.3 million investment compounds DRD's investment to supply transport solutions in rural areas for people who find it difficult to access or use conventional transport because of age, disability or rural location.

Kellie Armstrong, CTA's Acting Director for NI said:

"We are delighted the Minister has launched the vehicles during Community Transport Week. This is a fantastic start to the week and focuses attention on the types of services community transport provides in our community.

"This investment replaces and increases the number of community transport vehicles. The more accessible vehicles there are in the community means the more people can access transport that meets their needs.

"All vehicles are fully accessible meaning they are fitted with a passenger lift, lower side steps and have high visibility handrails, exit signs and comfortable seating. The design of the vehicles particularly meets the needs of people with limited mobility such as someone who finds it difficult to climb stairs (bus steps) or who use wheelchairs or have a visual disability. Community Transport aims to ensure transport is fully inclusive. This investment in accessible vehicles demonstrates the DRD's commitment to ensure all needs are met. Getting out and about in a rural area is made easier for everyone"

Mary O'Neill MBE, Manager with Dungannon and District Community Transport said:

"Community transport is focused on meeting the local community's transport needs. Each transport provider is led by the community it serves as all are run by a local volunteer Management Committee. Community Transport is here to fill the gaps and provide transport where there are no other options.

"The support from the DRD is invaluable and everyone who works to help provide transport services within rural communities would like to thank the Minister and his team for the investment and continued support to improving the lives of rural people."

Community Transport Week (6-10 October 2008) gives an opportunity for Community Transport operators to thank passengers and the community for their continued support. There is an opportunity for new members to learn about local ommunity Transport services and join as a member during the celebrations.

Information session

Community groups, social workers, charities, rural development officers, church groups and individuals who want to find out more about Community Transport are invited to attend an information session in the Glenavon House Hotel, Cookstown on Thursday 9 October from 11am-1pm. The Information session is open to all. At the session there will be an opportunity to discuss transport issues, get information from your local Community Transport provider and be the first to be updated on the future of transport for rural areas.

The Week celebrates the work and achievements of the not-for-profit Community Transport operators across Northern Ireland. Hosted by CTA, the week provides a promotional highlight for all community transport operators, passengers and support organisations. Community Transport Week 2008 culminates in the Inaugural Northern Ireland Community Transport Gala Ball being held at the Armagh City Hotel on 10 October at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from CTA. At the Ball Community Transport will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Rural Transport Fund which has provided funds to provide appropriate transport solutions through the community transport sector.

For further information on events please call Community Transport Association (CTA) 028 9040 3535 or see www.communitytransport-ni.com for details.