SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan
He hopes the service, which will commence next Friday, November 26, will help promote the night-time economy and help people get home safely with a reduced number of taxis operating in the city.
Said the Foyle MLA: “This is good news for Derry and its night-time economy. Getting home after a night out in Derry city centre is notoriously difficult.
“Not only is this off-putting for revellers but it has wider implications for local businesses.
“There have always been issues with limited taxi provision at night in the city and unfortunately this has been exacerbated as a result of the pandemic with taxi drivers leaving the profession to seek more flexible, family-friendly employment elsewhere.
“I have raised these issues among others with the Infrastructure Minister as well as the need to make the industry more accessible and attractive.
“I’m pleased Translink have agreed to my proposal for a pilot night bus service to be rolled out in Derry to ensure that people can get home safely.
“I would urge people to support this provision, it’s important to ensure people feel safe using it.
“There should be a zero tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour on buses.
“This is good news and I hope this provision will assist in promoting public transport and provide a boost for the local night-time economy,” added Mr Durkan.
