Murphy sets out commitment to sustainable transport

Transport Minister, Conor Murphy, today set out his commitment to delivering sustainable transport at the ‘Movement Matters Conference’ in Derry.

The Minister said: "As Minister responsible for transport, my focus is on ensuring the delivery of high quality transport and travel infrastructure and services which effectively support the economy of the region and help promote social inclusion in all areas."

Outlining his plans for the future Mr Murphy said: "There is no doubt that our high dependency on the car is no longer sustainable. Later this year, I will publish a new, revised Regional Transportation Strategy for consultation. It will have sustainable transport at its core and will set out a fresh direction for transport, balancing the needs of our economy, society, and environment. Through it, we will show how we can use our network in a better, smarter way."

The Minister added: "We need to continue to invest in public transport, in bus, rail and in rapid transit. That said, much has already been done to improve public transport in recent years.

"Investment in new rolling stock from the railways and in upgrading lines has resulted in a significantly better rail service. A further 20 new trains are on order to come into service from 2012 onwards and work will continue to make track improvements – most notably on the line to Derry where a new track relay is planned for 2012/13.

“Bus services are also continuing to improve, with new bus purchases ensuring a modern fleet which can provide frequent, reliable and comfortable services. It is encouraging to see that, in spite of the economic downturn, passenger numbers, particularly on the rail network have held up well."

Speaking about the benefits of getting people to use alternative methods of travel, the Minister said: "We need to continue to improve supporting infrastructure such as park and ride sites and to continue to encourage people to walk or cycle when possible. We need behavioural change and by providing the alternative and promoting its use, we can encourage people to change how they travel. As they switch in significant enough numbers, congestion can be reduced and business, the economy and the environment will all benefit.”

Going on to give some local example of how his Department was already promoting sustainable transport, Mr Murphy said: "Walk to School Week 2010, held this month, involved over 250 schools and 58,000 children across the North, with 20 schools and over 5,000 children in Derry alone.

“For Bike Week 2010, Travelwise is working with local councils to promote cycling. Councils in Derry and Coleraine are at the forefront of the joint effort, with full programmes of events.

“On the business front, Travelwise has supported the Western Health and Social Care Trust in establishing a Workplace Travel Plan for Altnagelvin Hospital. They are leading the way in promoting sustainable travel not only to employees but to other users of the site."

Notes to editors:

1. All media queries should be directed to the Department for Regional Development Press Office on 028 9054 0817.