The issue of train fares from Newry to Belfast was discussed at the assembly this week, highlighting the fact that it is actually cheaper to travel from Newry to Belfast via Dundalk. MLA Justin McNulty pointed out the discrepancy in prices, with the fare from Dundalk to Belfast being less expensive even though Newry is closer to the city. He also mentioned that the train from Newry passes through Portadown on its way to Belfast.
Further investigations by Newry.ie revealed that taking a train from Newry to Dundalk, crossing the platform, and then catching the next train from Dundalk to Belfast is £2.56 cheaper than going directly from Newry to Belfast. During a meeting with Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd at Stormont, Mr. McNulty questioned why passengers traveling from Newry are expected to pay more for a shorter journey compared to those traveling from Dundalk. He emphasized the importance of encouraging the use of public transport through fair pricing.
In response, Minister O’Dowd acknowledged the pricing anomaly and mentioned that Translink was making adjustments to address the issue. He explained that the Dublin Government provides higher subsidies to Iarnród Éireann, allowing for cheaper fares on the Dublin route compared to the Belfast route. This financial disparity impacts the pricing structure for train travel in the region.
Newry.ie compared the costs of travel from Dundalk and Newry for various train journeys and found significant differences in fares. For example, the online single fare from Dundalk to Belfast Grand Central was €8.19 (£6.94), while the fare from Newry to Belfast Grand Central on the same train was £14.50. By taking the train from Newry to Dundalk (£5) and then from Dundalk to Belfast (£6.94), passengers can save money on their journey, paying a total of £11.94. Additionally, a day return ticket from Dundalk to Belfast was cheaper than a similar ticket from Newry to Belfast, highlighting the cost advantages of traveling via Dundalk.
Overall, the pricing variations between Newry and Dundalk train fares raise questions about the fairness of ticket prices for different routes. While Translink is working to adjust fares to address the issue, the underlying financial support from the Dublin Government plays a significant role in determining the cost of train travel in the region. As passengers seek affordable and efficient transportation options, the need for transparent and equitable pricing remains a priority for policymakers and transport authorities.