The Department for Infrastructure announces intention to increase Rathlin Island ferry fares

The Department for Infrastructure has announced its intention to increase fares on the Rathlin Island ferry service.

The change to fares will be subject to a statutory 30-day notice period that is due to commence on 9 May 2023.

Fares for the ferry service have remained at the same level since April 2013 and an increase is therefore needed due to current budgetary pressures and the increased running costs of the ferry since that time. However, current discounts available on fares for residents, children and SmartPass holders will remain in place.

The Department is supportive of Rathlin Island and provides an ongoing subsidy for the lifeline ferry service, so that fares can be kept as low as possible. It has an oversight and co-ordinating role in relation to the Rathlin Island Policy, which is a NI Executive policy to ensure continued and sustainable growth of Rathlin, Northern Ireland’s only off-shore inhabited island.    

Notes to editors: 

1. The intended changes to fares include:

• A standard single passenger fare will increase from £6 to £8
• Vehicles and Trailers below 2.5 metres will increase from £10.30 to £15 single
• Vehicles and Trailers over 2.5 metres and under 6.0 metres will increasing from £20.60 to £30 single
• Children will remain half price (children under five are free) and SmartPass concessions remain available
• Residents will continue to receive discounts of at least 50% of the standard fares.

2. All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office at: press.office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk
3. The Executive Information Service operates an out-of-hours service for media enquiries only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.
4. Follow the Department on Twitter @deptinfra and on Facebook @DepartmentforInfrastructure and on LinkedIn at Department for Infrastructure.

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