West Ulster Rail Initiative’s AGM Sparks Urgent Call for Rail Reconnection

URGENT UPDATE: The West Ulster Rail Initiative (WURI) is holding its Annual General Meeting (AGM) this evening at 7:30 PM at the Station House Hotel in Letterkenny, where they will push for the critical re-establishment of rail connectivity in Donegal. This meeting comes as advocates emphasize the pressing need for sustainable transportation options in the region.

Established in 1995, WURI is advocating for the return of rail services that were discontinued in 1965 with the closure of the broad gauge GNR line from Derry to Strabane and onto Belfast. The initiative’s leaders, including Rev. David Crooks, have articulated that restoring rail connectivity is essential not just for transportation, but for economic development, impacting students, patients, tourists, and local businesses.

Crooks stated, “Sustainable transportation systems ensure regional economic development,” highlighting that the current traffic congestion faced by drivers in towns across the northwest underscores the urgent need for rail in Donegal. The AGM aims to rally support from community members, businesses, and local officials who are passionate about addressing climate change and reducing road traffic congestion.

The West Ulster Rail Initiative is calling on all stakeholders to join them in their mission to bring back rail services to Donegal, emphasizing that the benefits of re-establishing these connections extend far beyond mere transportation—they are vital for the region’s economy and community well-being.

As the meeting unfolds, community members and advocates are urged to engage and discuss the future of rail in Donegal. The outcome of this AGM could mark a pivotal moment for the region, potentially revitalizing a critical infrastructure that has been absent for decades.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops. The voices of the community will be crucial as WURI pushes forward in its mission to reintegrate rail into Donegal’s transportation framework.