Translink Prepare to Axe Station Staff
07 November 2011
TUV leader Jim Allister MLA has discovered that Translink may be preparing to radically reduce the number of staff at stations along the North-West route.
Jim Allister has been informed that Translink have already held a meeting with staff to inform them that the current workforce at the Londonderry and Antrim stations may be halved and a quarter of the staff working at the Ballymena station may no longer be required.
The revelations come despite the company advertising for management positions and assurances by the DRD Minister Danny Kennedy that there would be no compulsory redundancies at Translink.
In an effort to avoid redundancies station staff have been informed that alternative employment will be made available but they may be required to relocate or accept a reduction in salary.
Perhaps the most pressing concern is that the personal service afforded to members of the public will be sacrificed.
Commenting on the developments Jim Allister MLA stated:
“The news that Translink are to reduce the staff at local stations is I believe short-sighted. It appears that Translink are willing to sacrifice the quality of service afforded to customers as part of a short-term solution to funding caps.
We are constantly told by the regional assembly executive that the development of the tourist industry is fundamental to the future economy of Northern Ireland. I would suggest that the stations located along the North-west route have a significant role to play within the development of the tourist industry. The Antrim station is the nearest station to the International Airport and the Ballymena and Londonderry stations would serve any tourists wishing to access the beautiful North Coast.
If tourists are to be encouraged to visit Northern Ireland and the various attractions along the North-West route then it is important that they can easily access information from the stations.
Furthermore a great number of elderly people rely on public transport and have become accustomed to a quality service at stations. This may be in the form of information or assistance to find the correct connecting bus.
Of paramount concern is of course the safety of the general public. There can be no doubt that station staff ensure commuters are safe while waiting at stations. A reduction in station staff would compromise the safety of passengers.
We should be acting to encourage the general public to avail of public transport and the station teams play an invaluable role in ensuring that commuters feel safe and comfortable. I would therefore urge Translink to reconsider their plans to reduce the service at stations and reassure the general public that they can be assured of a quality service along the North-West route.”
