Attacks of this nature can cause lasting injury or psychological damage

Ciaran Rogan, Translink

The firm had earlier issued a final warning that it was ready to act to ensure the safety of staff and passengers following a surge in attacks.

Mr Rogan said the attack on the female driver was "the last straw".

Translink said that in the last four months there were 20 reported assaults on bus drivers and 80 attacks on vehicles. About 600 windows were also broken.

The number of incidents this year has increased by 86% on last year.

Passenger injuries

Translink said 41 people had been wounded since July and passenger injuries had risen by 64%.

Ciaran Rogan said: "We are justified in asking local politicians, community leaders and police to make every effort to create a climate in which wanton acts of vandalism and attacks on bus staff are effectively deterred and culprits apprehended before someone is killed.

"Attacks of this nature can cause lasting injury or psychological damage and as a major employer we have a legal obligation to protect our employees and members of the public."

Ligoniel will be dramatically affected by the cut in services

Eoin O'Broin, Sinn Fein

Sinn Fein said it was meeting Translink management on Thursday to discuss the situation.

North Belfast councillor Eoin O'Broin said: "As always it is the marginalised and isolated communities who loose out.

"Ligoniel will be dramatically affected by the cut in services. As a small nationalist enclave, the bus provides a lifeline for many people.

"The community are being penalised for the actions of others."

However, this was rejected by Translink.