Campaign group says buses can be public
CAMPAIGNERS in Glasgow are calling on the Scottish Government to “buy out”, not “bail out”, bus operators. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced bus companies would be able to access a £260million concessionary travel scheme, regardless of the number of passengers who use services, due to impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
But Get Glasgow Moving says the investment shows the government could step in to run buses as a “public service” for those who need it most.
Chairwoman Ellie Harrison said: “This proves what we have been saying all along – that buses are an essential public service and not a cash cow for private operators.
“We give more than £300m of public money to the private bus companies every year, yet they’re still allowed to pick and choose which routes they run and suck profits out of the system.
“Now, as the coronavirus crisis bites, they’re demanding another big bailout from government to keep themselves afloat.”
Campaign member Colette Walker said: “Public transport, especially buses are vitally important for the elderly and the disabled.
“The buses have enabled me to continue to attend my crucial hospital appointments, whilst maintaining the government distancing rules. Putting our needs as passengers first must continue after the crisis.”
However, a Transport Scotland spokesman said: “Throughout these challenging circumstances, our immediate priority is to work closely with industry partners to ensure we can provide essential public transport services for key workers.
“This is our focus at this time and we have no plans to nationalise bus services.”