Wheels fall off SNP bus policy with shocking cuts in Glasgow
For immediate release 23 February 2012
Commenting on the announcement of dramatic cuts to bus services in Glasgow by First Buses, Green MSP Patrick Harvie has condemned First Glasgow for the absence of any consultation with passengers and communities.
Eight services will be scrapped altogether, with many more reduced. For full details of the cuts, see the letter sent to Patrick Harvie MSP by First Glasgow, available here online: http://scot.gr/busfail
Patrick Harvie MSP said:
"This latest round of cuts is further proof that public transport, and especially buses, are a low priority for the Scottish Government. They’ve cut the funding, they’ve left the industry in the hands of deregulated businesses, and they’ve left Glasgow with a third rate service which is about to get worse still.
"I wrote to First Glasgow only last week following their early indication that cuts were on the way, asking them what kind of consultation will take place with passengers. When the Government cuts the budget something has to give, but the people who rely on Glasgow’s buses every day should be able to set the priorities, not a faceless executive behind a desk.
"The case for a better bus grant from the Government is very strong, but the case for regulation of the industry is just as urgent. This dismal situation is failing our city. The wheels have now totally fallen off the SNP's bus policy."