AQW 14134/22-27

Ms Kellie Armstrong
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 03/07/2024
Answered On Date: 22/07/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on funding for Down Community Transport.

Answer:

I understand the importance to those within our rural communities who rely on community transport provided by Down District Accessible Transport and others, for accessing goods and services, enabling them to be more independent and remain connected to their communities.

Funding for 2024/25 is at the same level as that awarded for 2023/24. This is subject to the Equality Impact Assessment consultation on the budget and so this allocation is indicative at this stage. I do, however, expect to be able to confirm opening budget allocations, once I have taken final decisions following consideration of responses to the Equality Impact Assessment after an initial four-week period ending 8th July 2024.

My Department has been operating in a difficult financial environment for a number of years due to underfunding and austerity by the British Government. The value of our infrastructure cannot be overstated, and I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to ensure appropriate investment is made.