Translink is to roll out special transport services for healthworkers following cuts to bus and train timetables.
The new measures include a new staff transport service for Blood Transfusion Service nurses and shuttle buses for staff in the South Eastern and Western Trusts.
The public transport operator has also joined forces with Unite the Union to provide toiletries for NHS heroes in temporary accommodation through the Translink Staff Charity.
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said: “This is partnership working in action.
“I am delighted that Translink has been able to announce new measures to assist our local Health Trusts and Blood Transfusion Service throughout Northern Ireland during the COVID-19 outbreak.
“These measures will play a small role in helping our health service to provide the care and support needed at this time and underlines the need for us all to come together during these unprecedented times.
“We must all play our part in the fight back against this deadly virus. Each of us can play our own part by staying at home, following the guidance, and travelling only if essential.
“My Department and Translink will continue to do everything we can to support our health service and our health care workers who are putting their lives on the line to save all of us.”
These latest developments follow the recent announcement that all NHS frontline workers can also travel for free on Translink’s buses and trains during the pandemic.
The firm’s chief executive Chris Conway said: “I want to thank our dedicated employees who are working hard to deliver essential bus and train services for those people that really need us.
“We must work together to get through this crisis and our partnership with the health sector means we can support all those frontline health workers who are fighting to save lives and keep us all safe.
“We would like to thank the public for supporting our employees as we maintain essential public transport in the weeks and months ahead and remind everyone to continue to follow the Public Health Agency advice to stay at home, wash your hands and maintain social distancing.”
For more details on Translink services and travel advice during the Covid-19 emergency click here.
