MLA welcomes £1million investment for Community Transport

INFRASTRUCTURE Minister Liz Kimmins has announced £1million of capital funding for community transport providers.

The funding will enable each of the 13 providers in the north to purchase a new minibus as they work towards replacing their ageing fleet.

The Minister made the announcement as Community Transport Week 2026 gets underway.

She said: “Community transport can often be the only transport option for many and it is vital that providers have a reliable fleet of vehicles to allow these services to be delivered safely and efficiently.

“This £1million funding will allow each of our 13 providers to procure a new vehicle so they can continue to provide vital services for those who need them most.

“Without these services, many elderly and disabled people who rely on them would find it difficult to access goods and services and remain connected to family and friends.”

Minister continued: “People must be at the heart of everything we do and Community transport services are a valuable life-line for many in our local communities in supporting some of our most vulnerable to maintain their independence.”

The funding has been welcomed by West Tyrone Sinn Féin MLA., Paul Boggs.

Speaking in the Assembly chamber on Monday following the announcement from Minister Kimmins, Mr Boggs, said: “Supporting Community Transport has been a priority for successive Sinn Féin Infrastructure Ministers.

"Our commitment to improving services has been further backed up with an investment of £1million for Community Transport providers announced by Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins.

"This funding will enable each of the 13 providers in the north to purchase a new minibus as they work towards replacing their ageing fleet.

“Whether it is helping people living in isolated rural areas or older people without access to a car, community transport plays a crucial role in keeping people connected, independent and socially active.

"I welcome the Minister’s support for community transport providers, including Easilink which provides an invaluable service to people in the wider Strabane and Omagh area, and the many people who rely on them as a lifeline."

“As we work towards a better connected society through improved transport links, Community Transport organisations have an even bigger role to play and I look forward to working with them and the Infrastructure Minister to ensure they are supported to play their part in the time ahead."