Police, community and political leaders in Northern Ireland were today urged to do everything in their power to stop attacks on bus services before someone loses their life.
Translink managing director Mr Ted Hesketh issued the plea after informing the Northern Assembly's Regional Development Committee that night-time bus services in four areas of Belfast are to be withdrawn because of constant attacks and vandalism.
The transport company chief told Assembly members that Citybus services to Glencairn would stop after 7 p.m. to Turf Lodge would end after 6 p.m., to Lagmore stopping after 6.10 p.m. and the Ulsterbus to Poleglass would not operate after 6 p.m.
Mr Hesketh told the committee that since July there had been 20 reported assaults on drivers, 10 robberies and almost 100 attacks on vehicles. A total of 863 windows had been smashed - an average of six shattered a day. The number of broken windows has risen by 128% since 1994.
Calling the decision regrettable, he said: "However, I feel that we are justified in asking local politicians, community leaders and police to make every effort to create a climate in which acts of vandalism and attacks on bus staff are effectively deterred and culprits apprehended before someone is killed."
The transport company chief told MLAs that vandalism was costing Translink £1 million per year, adding that children as young as six and seven were involved in nightly attacks.
The company has introduced its own security measures including shatter-resistant windscreens and closed circuit cameras.
The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Mr Jim Rodgers and his deputy Mr Hugh Smyth were seeking an urgent meeting tonight with the transport company to discuss the decision.
In a joint statement, the Ulster Unionist Mayor and the loyalist Progressive Unionist Deputy Mayor said attacks on drivers and buses were "reprehensible".
But they added: "We would be concerned that this is a way of Citybus saving money by withdrawing evening services which provide such a vital service to the elderly in particular.
Translink's decision also alarmed SDLP Assembly member Dr Joe Hendron who said his constituents in West Belfast should not have to suffer because of the "mindless violence" of a few.
PA