DART Attends Meeting with Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins on the Importance of Community Transport

DART was pleased to attend a recent meeting hosted by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins alongside the Community Transport Association and a number of rural transport providers from across Northern Ireland.

( Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has met with the Community Transport Association and a number of rural transport service providers to hear about the impact increased DFI funding for this vital service,  has had on the lives of so many over the past year. )

The meeting provided an important opportunity for organisations working within the community transport sector to discuss the positive impact increased Department for Infrastructure (DfI) funding has had over the past year, particularly for people living in rural and isolated communities.

Last year, the Minister increased funding for the community transport sector by more than £1 million, helping organisations to expand services and respond to growing local demand. This additional investment has enabled more journeys to be delivered with greater flexibility, ensuring that more people can access essential everyday services such as medical appointments, shopping trips, and social activities.

For many older and vulnerable people, community transport services are a lifeline. Reliable and accessible transport helps individuals maintain their independence, stay connected to family and friends, and continue participating in their local communities.

At DART, we see firsthand the difference these services make every day. Community transport is not simply about getting from one place to another it is about reducing isolation, improving wellbeing, and supporting people to live independently for longer.

Speaking after the meeting, Minister Kimmins highlighted the importance of continuing to place people at the heart of transport services across Northern Ireland and reaffirmed her commitment to protecting and delivering quality services for those who rely on them most.

DART welcomes the Minister’s continued support for the sector and the recognition of the vital role community transport plays in connecting communities across Northern Ireland.

You can read the full statement from the Department for Infrastructure here:

https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/news/kimmins-welcomes-increase-local-community-transport-trips