A part-time student has hit out at the rising cost of bus tickets as Translink are set to rise their prices for both Ulsterbus journeys and rail journeys from Monday, March 6.

Sean Paul Curry (36), from Enniskillen, is a part-time student and takes the bus from Enniskillen to Belfast once a week for his classes. He contacted this newspaper about the stark rise in price and a lack of offers for students using public transport.

He said: “The rise in cost of the tickets will affect me mostly in terms of forking out cash once a week so I can continue studying my Youth Work Degree at Ulster University in Belfast.

“Lucky for me, it’s only one day a week, but I’m sure others use the bus a lot more than me.

“Full-time students will also be affected, and those are the people it will affect the most as they, unlike me, work part-time, if at all.”

Breaking down the cost difference, Sean Paul said: “At the moment, I pay £13.10 for a day return to Belfast, the cost is going up to just over £21 – that’s around an £8 rise, which is ridiculous.

“I did ask the bus driver if students could get a reduced rate, and he replied no.

“I don’t think it will factor into a decision on re-enrolling; it [my studies] will be worth it in the long run, it just means I have to tighten the purse strings and watch how I spend my money though.”

When asked by this newspaper if he believes this is a symptom of the cost-of-living crisis, Sean Paul said: “Absolutely, but this is a huge rise on the original cost, and the fact that there will be no student rate is just inconsiderate from the powers that be.”

Announcing the price increase earlier this month, Translink’s Group Chief Executive, Chris Conway, said: “We understand this will add to the cost-of-living pressures our passengers are already facing; however, we have worked very hard to keep fare adjustments low, and indeed, having had no fare increase in four years, in real terms our fares still offer good value.

“We also recognise the need to support the many young people who have been particularly impacted by the pandemic and cos-of-living crisis.

“[Our] yLink card discounts have been increased to 50 per cent off from a third off, while maintaining free access to the card for all 16- to 23-year-olds to help support them at this difficult time.

“Most cash single fares across the network will increase by around 7 per cent. Discounts on day return fares after 9.30am for rail and Ulsterbus journeys will change to offer around 25 per cent off in most cases.

“We know any increase is unwelcome, but we are confident that bus and train travel is still an attractive and competitive option, compared to private motoring, particularly given the cost of fuel.

“It is also the healthier, smarter and cleaner travel choice for a better-connected society.

“We will work with all our stakeholders to promote the best value fares and have established a web page at www.translink.co.uk/faresrevision to help direct passengers to choose the best ticket for their travel needs,” added Mr. Conway.

 

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