Scottish Greens call for cross-party support for cutting rail fares
The Scottish Greens' transport spokesperson, Mark Ruskell MSP, is urging all MSP’s to back his party’s call for cheaper, accessible rail travel ahead of today's Holyrood debate.
This afternoon the party will use opposition debate time to bring forward a vote on halting the above inflation rail fare hikes coming in April and permanently removing peak rail fares.
While in government, the party secured a scheme to remove peak fares for 12 months, but this was reintroduced last year by the SNP.
Mr Ruskell said:
“I hope that MSP’s from all parties will join us today in voting to lower costs for commuters and end peak rail fares for good.
“Households and families across Scotland deserve affordable, accessible rail, especially when so many people are struggling financially.
“Our rail fares are among the highest in Europe. ScotRail is rightfully publicly owned, but the extortionate prices that people are being made to pay totally defeats the purpose.
“Peak rail fares are fundamentally unfair, particularly when most people have no say on when they travel to work or to study. Ending them for good will make the services more affordable and accessible for all.
“It will encourage people to leave their cars at home, making our roads safer for walking, wheeling and cycling while utilising the most sustainable way to travel across our country.
“Cleaner, greener and affordable public transport is a way for us to put our best foot forward for people and planet, and I hope that MSPs will embrace it today.”