Consultation on free bus travel for young people is open
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North-east MSPs are calling on constituents to take part in a consultation on providing free bus travel to young people under the age of 19.
The Scottish Government has put forward the proposed extension which would impact 770,000 young people and is now looking for people to put their views forward.
It would deliver on the budget agreement which was reaffirmed in the recent Programme for Government.
Aberdeenshire East MSP Gillian Martin and Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson have welcomed the move.
The proposals will also help support the vision proposed through the National Transport Strategy, which looks to provide a system with reduced inequalities and one that advances equality of opportunity.
Ms Martin said: “This is a hugely exciting proposal for the future of our bus sector and will help to engage younger people with sustainable transport.
“Access to free bus travel would help young people under the age of 19 to access employment, education and leisure.
“It will also help to support low-income families who may not have access to transport.
“Free bus travel is also vital in our response to the climate emergency and we look to shift away from private vehicle use towards more sustainable transport.
“I would urge constituents to take part in the consultation and make their views heard.”
Mr Stevenson said: “What we are proposing will help our young people as we recover from the Covid-19 pandemic which will have a long-term impact on this age group.
“This would also support the vision outlined in our National Transport Strategy for a fairer and more sustainable transport system – reducing inequalities, tackling poverty and promoting opportunity.”
The consultation closes on Monday, December 7. It can be accessed online at https://consult.gov.scot/transport-scotland/consultation-free-bus-travel-for-people-under19
