Hazzard Welcomes Translink Wi-Fi Investment on South Down Routes

SOUTH Down MLA Chris Hazzard has welcomed the launch of Internet connectivity on Translink Goldline services from Downpatrick and Newcastle.

Following a meeting with Translink officials this week, the local Assemblyman described Translink’s initiative as “a welcome step in the right direction for public transport across South Down and further afield.”

Mr Hazzard added: “In recent days Translink Goldline services from Downpatrick and Newcastle went live with free Wi-Fi for passengers and over the next couple of months the level of provision will gradually build up until the entire Goldline fleet will be connected.

“It is important that if we are to promote the benefits of public transport that we invest in the latest technologies to encourage people to switch from private transport. Resourceful ideas such as free Wi-Fi and indeed the Y-Link youth facility are crucial in creating a sustainable appetite for public transport in the future.

“It is great to hear that passengers in South Down are responding well to the Wi-Fi scheme, and I have little doubt that with the price of fuel still on the rise, people from right across the constituency will start to leave the car at home and take the bus instead.”