8 July 2026

SDLP Opposition Infrastructure Spokesperson Justin McNulty MLA has said proposals to cut Translink’s youth discounts and late-night services will negatively impact young people and the economy.

Translink has launched a public consultation on a range of cost-saving measures.

Newry & Armagh MLA Justin McNulty said:

“While these proposals may deliver short-term savings for Translink, the long-term impact on young people, local businesses and our wider economy could be far greater. In the absence of an Executive Budget and with a continued lack of delivery, we are repeatedly seeing services stripped back and it is the public who are paying the price.

“The removal of late-night services would mean people arriving into Belfast from Dublin late at night on three days each week would be unable to access onward public transport. That sends entirely the wrong message to anyone considering visiting, studying, working or investing in the North. It would also have a serious impact on local businesses, particularly in the hospitality sector, by discouraging people from travelling because of the lack of reliable public transport.

“Our young people would also be hit hard by the loss of these discounts. Many rely on them to get to university, work and training and, at a time when household budgets remain under real pressure, these proposals would make everyday life even more expensive.

“I understand that Translink has difficult decisions to make, but it is deeply worrying that instead of investing in our public transport network, services and incentives are being stripped away. If we are serious about encouraging people to use public transport, supporting economic growth and reducing emissions, these proposals take us in entirely the wrong direction.”