Vital community transport service must be maintained

Carla Lockhart MP • March 28, 2023

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has met with representatives of DART, the local community transport provider, to discuss uncertainty with their funding for the next financial year.

After the meeting, Carla said:

“DART provide an essential service to many people locally, particularly those who have no other means of getting around. This can be the case for residents in rural areas who have to get to the doctor, pick up a prescription or get the weekly shopping and have no access to a vehicle.

The Department for Infrastructure have said the funding for this service in the next financial year is uncertain. Only April is being promised and beyond that nothing is guaranteed. That is not good enough, with a cloud of doubt hanging over this essential community service.

I am calling on the Department to step up to provide the necessary finance moving forward to ensure this community transport is maintained moving forward. We need certainty, not just for DART, but also for service users to depend on this service to get from A to B.”

< Older Post

Newer Post >

DAERA Farm Investment Scheme a missed opportunity to combat rural crime

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 28, 2026

DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has urged farmers and rural communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity following a recent spate of thefts targeting farms across Northern Ireland.

Lockhart criticises DAERA plans for £2m on-farm TB biosecurity advice service

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has criticised DAERA's plans to press ahead with a multi-million pound tender for the provision of an on-farm bovine TB biosecurity advice service.

MP invites DEFRA Secretary to Upper Bann and sets out priorities for UK agri-food sector

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026

DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has written to newly appointed DEFRA Secretary Dame Angela Eagle, requesting a meeting and inviting her to visit Northern Ireland to hear directly from farmers, businesses and industry leaders in Upper Bann.

MP urging Prime Minister to restore confidence across UK farming sector

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has written to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, urging him to place agriculture and national food security at the centre of his Westminster Government's agenda.

Lockhart commends community spirit at Killicomaine Fun Day and bonfire celebrations

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the outstanding community spirit on display during a visit to the Killicomaine Fun Day, commending local volunteers and bonfire builders for their dedication in bringing the community together ahead of the Twelfth celebrations.