Timothy Gaston demands ‘fairness’ from Translink over £20k Pride support

Inset: TUV North Antrim MLA Timothy Gaston

TUV North Antrim MLA Timothy Gaston has accused Translink of showing “double standards” after claiming the public transport operator overcharged Loyal Orders and marching bands while spending thousands of pounds supporting Belfast Pride.

Mr Gaston alleged that Translink had “for years overcharged bands and Loyal Orders for buses to demonstrations”, adding that “even this year [it applied] inflated bank holiday rates for the Twelfth when it fell on a Saturday”.

He contrasted this with what he described as preferential treatment for Belfast Pride participants, saying:

“In stark contrast, Translink provided a dedicated ‘Pride bus’ for Belfast Pride, complete with a special email address for bookings from those with mobility issues — a service offered to no other parade.”

The TUV representative also criticised the public transport provider’s reported financial support for the annual event, claiming:

“On top of this, Translink has spent almost £20,000 over a four-year period on registration, branding and materials linked to Pride. Passengers would much prefer that money be invested in better services.”

Mr Gaston said he believed Translink’s approach breached the spirit of its Section 75 equality obligations, arguing that the company had “tied itself to a contentious political parade which many oppose”.

He added:

“When challenged on how this squares with its Section 75 duties, Translink ducked the issue — even though its support came in the same year Pride promoted a play portraying Christ as a trans woman and allowed a man dressed as Christ, crown of thorns and all, to march in the very parade where a Translink bus took part.

“Such grossly offensive actions would never be tolerated against any other faith. Yet officialdom excuses them when it comes to Christianity, provided it is done under the rainbow flag.

“The public are weary of being told the only acceptable flag is the rainbow. It is time Translink respected the feelings of the entire community it serves, rather than pandering to a narrow agenda.”

In response, a Translink spokesperson said the company’s participation in Pride formed part of its wider equality and inclusion commitments.

“Translink operated a bus for people with accessibility issues to help them take part in Belfast Pride parade. This is part of our commitment towards showcasing Translink as an inclusive and diverse organisation, serving the whole community.

“Through an employee-led initiative, a number of staff take part in the Pride parade to support colleagues, family and friends.”

The debate follows growing scrutiny of public bodies’ participation in social and cultural events, particularly when questions arise about neutrality and equal treatment under equality legislation.