Armagh Rural Transport (ART) has been celebrated for on its 25 years of service to the local community.
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins visited the ART headquarters in Armagh where she met with management, volunteers and service users.
ART is an independent company limited by guarantee and a registered charity which aims to connect people and communities across the wider Armagh area, by providing affordable and accessible transport to individuals and groups.
Services include the Dial-a-Lift scheme and Disability Action Transport Scheme both of which are funded by the Department for Infrastructure.
Minister Kimmins said: “Community transport services are a lifeline to many in rural and isolated areas and for those who are less able to travel independently.
“Last year alone funding from my Department enabled ART to undertake 7,735 trips and it was heartwarming to see and hear first-hand the hard work and commitment of those involved in delivering this valuable service; from the staff, drivers, volunteers, Trustees and, of course, service users.
“I have also recently issued an offer of increased funding for 2025/26 to allow ART to provide an enhanced level of service to its users in the coming year.
“Without these services vulnerable groups in our communities would find it difficult to access goods and services and remain connected with friends and family.
“‘Including People’ is one of my Department’s seven ‘Foundations for a Better Future’ and working with the community transport sector, amongst others, represents our commitment to improving the inclusiveness of our society and putting people at the heart of everything we do.
“However, I also recognise the challenges and rising costs facing the sector and today, and I am looking forward to the introduction of multi-year budgets so we can continue to work together to provide safe and dependable local transport to those who need it most.
“I would like to congratulate and commend ART on reaching this milestone 25th anniversary year and for their continued support to the local community.”
ART Manager Joanne Curran said: “I thank the minister for the increased funding for the year 2025/26 which will enable us to increase the level of service we provide to the community and to those most in need, putting people first at the heart of everything we do.”
Dermot Mooney, Chairperson of ART said: “I feel that the meeting with the minister and her team went well, and everyone got a chance to contribute and express their views.
“The minister was very open to suggestions as to how the service could be improved and we were very appreciative of the ministers actions in increasing funding for the current year and we appreciate her and her team taking the time to visit us in celebrating our 25th Anniversary, in spite of a very busy schedule.
“We look forward to increased co-operation with DfI in the future which can only benefit the services ART provides to its members.”
William Boyd whose 34-year-old son William regularly uses Armagh Rural Transport said: “This service brings William a real sense of independence – it makes his world bigger. As a parent I have confidence in the service as I find it reliable, safe and secure.”
Laura Malocca, a wheelchair user and regular traveller on Armagh Rural Transport services for over 20 years said: “I have been using these services for years – for going to work, going to medical appointments, the gym or out to socialise and see other people. The staff are always so friendly and I really enjoy the trips and the independence it brings me.”
