Mother Praises Translink for Arranging £100 Taxi During Storm Darragh

Bronagh, the mother of seven-year-old Eimear, who had recently undergone surgery, found herself in a distressing situation when public transport in the region was halted due to severe weather conditions. Despite the challenges, Translink staff stepped in to provide support, going above and beyond to assist the family in their time of need.

The Challenge: Getting Home During Storm Darragh

Eimear, who had been recovering in the hospital, was given the go-ahead to return home. However, their journey from Coleraine to Belfast quickly turned complicated when the announcement was made that all public transport services were suspended because of Storm Darragh.

Bronagh, who was already concerned about her daughter's condition, faced increasing anxiety as she realized their travel options were limited.

Bronagh: "I was trying so hard not to, but the tears started falling."

The weather conditions were worsening, and she feared being stranded.

Translink's Response: Providing a Solution

Amid the stressful situation, a Translink staff member approached Bronagh and reassured her that they would do everything they could to help.

Translink Staff Member: "Don't worry, we'll take care of it. We're arranging a taxi for you and your daughter, and we'll cover the fare."

While Bronagh gathered her thoughts and tried to stay strong for Eimear, Translink staff offered comfort, including a hot chocolate and a sticky chocolate bun for the young girl.

As they spoke to Eimear about Christmas and her beloved dog teddy, another staff member explained that buses and trains couldn't operate due to the storm, but they had a solution. The staff informed Bronagh that they would arrange a taxi for the family and cover the £100 fare for the ride from Coleraine to Belfast.

The Impact of Translink's Generosity

Bronagh expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the support provided by the Translink team. She felt overwhelmed by their kindness and wanted to ensure that the staff members who helped her were recognized for their efforts. "They deserve some recognition for coming through for us in such a tremendous way," she said.

Despite not knowing the names of the staff involved, Bronagh emphasized how the team's actions made a huge difference in a very challenging situation.

Translink's Commitment to Customer Service

A spokesperson for Translink praised the staff's actions, noting the company's commitment to serving the local community. They highlighted how the team in Coleraine recognized the special needs of the situation and took steps to ensure the family's safety and well-being.

The spokesperson said, "We are pleased our team was able to assist this family caught in this challenging situation, and our staff make the difference in the service our customers receive."