Greens hail free ferry travel for young islanders
Scottish Green MSP Ariane Burgess has hailed the introduction of the Green policy of free inter-island ferry travel for young Islanders, which begins today.
The scheme, which was originally announced by the then Green Minister Patrick Harvie in 2023, will allow everyone under 22 living on Orkney, Shetland or the Outer Hebrides to access free inter-island travel as foot passengers in their local authority.
Ms Burgess said:
“This is an important change and one which was pushed for by the Scottish Greens. It will open up our communities for young people and allow them to explore and appreciate the islands around them.
“The rising cost of living is felt particularly harshly by islanders, who will often have higher bills and costs. Steps like this are a simple and important way to support families and young people and to offset some of the extra costs they already face.
“Young people already receive free bus travel in Scotland thanks to Scottish Greens, which is one of the proudest achievements of devolution in terms of promoting public transport and saving people money. Young islanders deserve those same benefits.
“Ferries are a vital lifeline. By providing affordable and reliable services we can ensure young people feel more able to continue living in their communities while offering them greater freedom and opportunities.”