There are a series of problems affecting local rail services which mean that local communities have an appalling service. I have raised this with Ministers to ensure that they put pressure on Northern Rail and work with other bodies to deal with these problems as a top priority.
Factors causing these problems include: missing carriages, new timetable, delays in electrification, delays in driver training and disruption from Trade Unions. I have brought all of these concerns to the attention of Ministers and they are working to deal with them but we do need support from devolved authorities.
Transport for the North is jointly responsible for the performance of the Northern Rail franchise and the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, sits on its board. We should expect that the Mayor takes his responsibilities seriously, starts to attend TftN meetings and works to resolve problems rather than taking it as an opportunity for political grand standing.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/plans-to-tackle-northern-rail-issues-top-priority