Rural Transport Fund Voucher Scheme

The Department for Regional Development is pleased to announce that the second round of the Rural Transport Fund Voucher Scheme for 2012/2013 will be open for application requests from the 1st May 2012. This scheme is aimed at rural community groups and organisations wishing to transport 17 or more passengers. The scheme will provide a £100 voucher towards the cost of transport for successful applicants.

The Voucher Scheme was initially piloted by Newry & Mourne Community Transport and was rolled out across Northern Ireland during 2009/10 for the benefit of larger groups in rural areas. Supported by the Rural Transport Fund the scheme will work in partnership with private transport operators who will deliver the actual transport.

The scheme incorporates all rural areas within Northern Ireland. Application packs are available from 1st May 2012 for those non-profit making community groups who are planning on travelling during July, August and September 2012. The closing date to return the completed applications is 31 May 2012.

There is a limit to the number of vouchers available in each area. To assist those community organisations that help or support the most vulnerable in society there is a selection process.

To receive an application pack please contact 028 905 40620 or e-mail melanie.parker@drdni.gov.uk or geraldine.finnegan@drdni.gov.uk.