DALLAT: NO MINISTER TO EXPLAIN DELAY FOR BELFAST RAPID TRANSPORT SYSTEM

RAPID TRANSPORTSDLP Transport Spokesperson John Dallat MLA has criticised the Department of Regional Development for announcing another delay in the development of the Rapid Transport System linking East and West Belfast.

The project that was expected to begin operating by autumn 2017 has now been pushed back to an unspecific date.

He said: “The further delay in introducing the Rapid Transport System linking East and West Belfast is yet another setback in the pursuit of a modern transport system fit for purpose.

“On this occasion we do not have a Minister for Regional Development to answer questions or explain what has led to another delay in a Departmental project managed entirely by civil servants.

“This announcement, coming amid yet another political crisis, suits those responsible for mess but who have been left virtually unaccountable by the impending collapse of the Executive.

“The Minister would be serving this community better if he was present to explain this latest copout.

“On this occasion we cannot blame Translink because this is a project where the total responsibility lies with the Department of Regional Development. They have failed and must now come before the Committee to explain the reason for this delay.

“The Rapid Transport System is a poor substitute for a proper dedicated cross-city rail system but at the least it was a beginning, now we need to know when the beginning will be.”

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