The East Belfast MLA said: “This weekend saw the partial operational opening of Belfast Grand Central Station, which is a fantastic asset to Northern Irish transport, and will serve as an example of what political will and commitment can achieve for our community.

“However, it is disappointing Northern Ireland has the lowest spending per head of population on public transport amongst all the UK nations. From figures quoted today in BBC News NI, there is a £272 difference in public transport spending here compared with spend in England, which points to the relative underfunding of Northern Ireland. To achieve parity in funding for public transport, we need a better financial baseline to be able to deliver more.

“The imbalance in investment is also reflective of a political system that lacks the ability to plan long-term, due to repeated collapse and dysfunction. Capital projects require significant and strategic long-term thinking, and sustained investment. Components which often get lost in the dysfunctionality of our institutions. After the opening of Belfast Grand Central Station, we need to see greater political commitment on large scale projects that will change the face of Northern Irish infrastructure.

“Investment into sustainable transport is especially important as a lever to achieve other policy priorities, such as green growth and cutting carbon emissions. Transport is Northern Ireland’s second largest emitting sector, and it is vital that we continue to invest in projects that enhances access to low-carbon transport, offering a reliable alternative to private cars and improving air quality in towns and cities across Northern Ireland.”