To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail his plans to ensure the sustainability of community transport services, especially in the north coast area.

I recognise and value the contribution of all organisations that provide community transport services across the North, and the impact that they have on some of the most vulnerable groups in society.

I have made the decision to provide funding to community transport for 2024/25 at the total levels awarded for 2023/24. This is subject to the planned Equality Impact Assessment consultation on the budget and so this allocation is indicative at this stage. I do, however, expect to be able to confirm opening budget allocations, once I have taken final decisions following consideration of responses to the Equality Impact Assessment after an initial four-week period.

I am currently considering an evaluation report on the Dial-a-Lift (DAL) Scheme and Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS) and will ensure the sustainability of community transport services is integral to the action plan for the next phase of the community transport review.

My Department has been operating in a difficult financial environment for a number of years due to underfunding and austerity by the British Government. The value of our infrastructure cannot be overstated, and I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to ensure appropriate investment is made.