Transport bosses have announced a 33% price hike for passengers and 45% for cars on the Rathlin Island Ferry.
The Department for Infrastructure announced its intention to increase the single fare prices on Friday.
They say the proposed change will be subject to a statutory 30-day notice period that is due to start on May 9, 2023.
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A spokesperson said: “Fares for the ferry service have remained at the same level since April 2013 and an increase is therefore needed due to current budgetary pressures and the increased running costs of the ferry since that time.
“However, current discounts available on fares for residents, children and SmartPass holders will remain in place.
“The Department is supportive of Rathlin Island and provides an ongoing subsidy for the lifeline ferry service, so that fares can be kept as low as possible.
“It has an oversight and co-ordinating role in relation to the Rathlin Island Policy, which is a NI Executive policy to ensure continued and sustainable growth of Rathlin, Northern Ireland’s only off-shore inhabited island.”
The intended changes will see a standard single passenger fare increase from £6 to £8 and a standard single car fare will increase from £10.30 to £15. Vehicles and Trailers over 2.5 metres and under 6.0 metres will increase from £20.60 to £30.00 single.
Children will remain half price, children under five are free, and SmartPass concessions remain available.
They said residents will continue to receive discounts of at least 50% of the standard fares.
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