Translink has not cut Derry-Dublin service

Contrary to your correspondent Damien O'Connell (Write Back, January 8), there has been no reduction in Translink services between Derry/Londonderry and Dublin.

Timetable changes came into effect on X3 and X4 Derry/Londonderry-to-Dublin routes, following Bus Eireann's withdrawal in May 2017.

We operate four X3 departures each day from Derry/Londonderry to Dublin and three X4s: 4.15am (X3), 5.50am (X4), 7am (X3), 9.50am (X4), 12pm (X3), 3pm (X3) and 5.30pm (X4).

There are three X3 departures from Dublin to Derry/Londonderry and four X4s: 10am (X3), 11am (X4), 12.15pm (X3), 3.15pm (X4), 6pm (X4), 8.15pm (X3) and 10.30pm (X4).

The X3 provides a service for customers in Strabane, Omagh, Ballygawley, Aughnacloy, Monaghan, Castleblayney, Carrickmacross and Ardee, while X4 provides a service in Dungiven, Maghera, Castledawson, Cookstown, Dungannon and Armagh.

Prior to Bus Eireann's withdrawal, we operated two X3 services between both cities, but increased this to three each day to meet passenger demand.

We also operate 41 212 Goldline Express Services from Derry/Londonderry to Belfast, Monday-to-Thursday, running every 15 minutes at peak times, with additional services on Fridays to cater for students, which allow transfers to Dublin-bound bus and train services.

In addition, there are 16 trains running Monday-to-Friday from Derry/Londonderry to Belfast, again, allowing for transfers to Dublin from Belfast.

KERRY GRAYE

Media relations officer, Translink