Free bus travel for under-22s a 'game changer' for north-east families, says MSP
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THE introduction of free bus travel for everyone under 22 has been a game changer, a north-east MSP has stated.
Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman said the move has opened up the country for north-east young people and their families.
She was speaking as new figures published by the Scottish Parliament show that since the scheme was launched 18 months ago 26,659 young people in Aberdeen, 30,871 in Aberdeenshire, 12,566 in Angus and 20,668 in Dundee have received their free bus passes – over 60 per cent of all eligible young people in these areas.
In total, 620,000 young people across Scotland have enjoyed over 62 million journeys.
Scotland is the only country in the UK to offer free bus travel for young people. It was introduced following negotiations between the Scottish Greens and the Scottish Government.
Ms Chapman said: “Free bus travel has been a game changer for young people and their families across our region.
"We are in a cost-of-living crisis and this is helping household budgets and our communities, as well as cutting emissions.
“I’m really proud of the success we’ve seen. It is one of the most important changes that our Parliament has introduced since devolution, and is giving young people more confidence and more opportunities to explore our country.
“I am delighted that so many young people in the north-east Scotland region are already benefitting, but I want everyone to have that chance. I would encourage all of those who have yet to do so to visit Freebus.scot and register for their card today.”
