NEW figures show over 2.8 million free bus journeys have been made by under 22s in Dumfries and Galloway since the free bus pass policy was introduced three years ago.
And the statistics were hailed by local MSP Emma Harper as “transformative for our young people”.
Just over 13,000 young people under 22 years hold a concessionary bus pass in this region, with over 52,000 qualifying for the older people’s and disabled scheme.
Commenting, Ms Harper said: “This isn’t just about pounds, shillings, and pence; we are helping change travel patterns for years to come as young people become less dependent on the motor car and more used to public transport as they get older – and giving young people the freedom to travel widely across our country.
“And while the Labour government down south is slashing entitlement to fuel payments for pensioners, the SNP Scottish Government is protecting the older people’s bus pass, helping over 50,000 people in D&G alone.
“Free bus travel for under 22s is part of the overall campaign to end child poverty in Scotland, and this policy has been one of the most instrumental in improving the lives of young people across D&G, supporting our bus services, our community and our climate.
“Over 65,000 people across D&G are benefiting right now from concessionary bus travel and woe betide anyone who would put that at risk – we are committed to this policy despite those who know the cost of everything and value of nothing.
- All under 22s, over 60s and disabled people qualify for free bus travel across the whole country, including travel to and from Carlisle and Berwick-from-Tweed from anywhere in Scotland. Applications for anyone qualifying for the pass can be made through getyournec.scot.
