Robin Newton MBE MLA

East Belfast DUP MLA Robin Newton has responded to the publication of a report presented to the DRD Minister, Conor Murphy suggesting that there should not to be a light rail system for Belfast, but rather that a bus system would best suit the city’s needs. Mr. Newton urged the Minister to consider both options very carefully before making any final decision.

Speaking today Robin Newton said:

"I welcome the publication of this report, insofar as it represents the first serious piece of work undertaken to assess the viability of a light rail network for Belfast. I would urge the Minister to consider very carefully the merits of both a bus and light rail transport system for Belfast. 

It is essential that whatever system the Minister eventually decides upon that it is attractive to potential users. This will involve raising standards of the facilities available and making prices competitive. One potential way of doing this would be to attract the support of the private sector in the project. 

Whether a bus service or a rail enterprise it is important that Belfast, the economic engine which drives Northern Ireland is serviced by a first class public transport system. As part of our broader environmental obligations, it is essential that we get people out of their cars and into public transport.”