Mr Dunne commented:
'The publication of the All-Ireland Strategic Rail Review as well as the Union Connectivity Review was an opportunity to begin a reset for how we invest in our rail services in Northern Ireland. Sadly, the response from the Department for Infrastructure to these reviews has so far been lacking.
In November 2024, in response to my written question, the then Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd listed a number of feasibility studies being taken forward by his Department and Translink following the completion of the All-Ireland Strategic Rail Review and Union Connectivity Review. Included in this list of projects was a feasibility study to improve pedestrian access at George Best Belfast City Airport. Minister O'Dowd also advised that this study was due to report in spring/summer 2025.
I was extremely disappointed to learn from a follow-up question to the current Minister, Liz Kimmins, that the Translink Rail Halt Accessibility Assessment project, which includes pedestrian access to Sydenham Station, has been delayed and will now not report until Summer 2026. The Minister points to budget constraints as the cause of the delay, and whilst the study is being undertaken by Translink, a shortfall in budget can be traced back to the Minister's Department.
The failure to invest in improving our rail services in a timely manner represents a real missed opportunity and further calls into question the Minister's decision to splurge nearly £150,000 on the installation of Irish language signage at Grand Central Station. Especially if Translink cannot afford to complete feasibility studies, never mind delivering on the recommendations of such reports. Meanwhile, those trying to access George Best Belfast City Airport via train continue to be left with a long and potentially dangerous walk alongside the Sydenham Bypass.'