Highlands and Island MSP John Finnie praises deal for free bus travel
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A GREEN MSP whose constituency includes Moray has hailed the decision to let young people aged 18 and under travel free on buses.
John Finnie said the deal struck by his party with the Scottish Government ahead of the budget was "transformational".
It means that, from 2021, all under-18s across Scotland will be able to use a concessionary scheme to travel for free on bus routes, in a similar way to the entitlement currently held by over-60s.
The Highlands and Islands MSP said: "Free bus travel for young people is a transformational step towards tackling the climate emergency.
"This scheme could save young people and families thousands of pounds a year, and encourage whole generations of public transport users.
"Buses are the backbone of local public transport and the key to employment and training opportunities for so many of those starting out in life."
Also under the deal between the Scottish Greens and the SNP an extra £95million will be divided between the 32 local authorities in Scotland.
Moray Council will receive £1.6million of this cash.
Mr Finnie said: "Since the 2016 election the Scottish Greens have pushed the Scottish Government to provide councils with a fairer share of funding.
"I’m delighted that this year Greens have been able to deliver £1.6million more for Moray Council to help protect vital local services upon which my constituents depend."
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