BUS and train drivers "are risking their lives on a daily basis" to keep public transport going for other essential and key workers.
Davy Thompson of Unite union urged the public not to travel by bus and rail as he commended Translink workers for their bravery.
"I'm incredibly proud of our members who are keeping Northern Ireland’s buses and trains moving during the lockdown. Frontline public transport workers are risking their lives on a daily basis to provide and maintain public transport for other essential and key workers."
He said the union has negotiated "a suite of protections for staff" with Translink management, including gloves, hand sanitiser, the introduction of cashless fares, protective coverings for security screens and the cordoning off of the front seats for ensure social distancing between drivers and passengers.
However, despite these precautions drivers in Northern Ireland are falling sick with Covid-19.
This week it emerged that eight public bus workers, one Transport for London worker and one London Underground worker have now died in the capital after testing positive for coronavirus.
Metro representative, Michael Dornan said no drivers have died in Northern Ireland yet.
"Sadly despite the infection control measures, we have seen some of our drivers fall ill but so far we have been lucky and we have no fatalities.
"Every day we go to work hoping that today isn't the day we contract the virus or worse still bring it home to our loved ones but we have to play our role and help other key and essential workers get to their equally vital jobs.
Mr Dornan stressed the need for everyone to stay at home.
"Allow this service to be exclusively for other key and essential workers. By being sensible and working together, we will make it through these challenging times."
