Monday February 9th 2015
SNP MSP Colin Beattie has welcomed the Scottish Government’s continuing investment in concessionary travel, after new research showed that a total of 21,234 people in Midlothian are benefiting from the scheme.
The research from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) shows that 19,077 people over the age of 60 and 2,157 disabled people in Midlothian benefited from the policy.
It has been announced that a deal had been struck between Transport Scotland and the bus industry which will see £414m invested over the next two years to ensure the scheme continues to provide free bus travels for over 60s, injured service veterans and people with disabilities.
Commenting, Colin Beattie said:
“The SNP Government’s deal to ensure that concessionary bus travel continues in coming years is hugely significant and this new research shows just how important this investment is to the thousands of older and disabled people in Midlothian who are benefiting from this scheme.
“Concessionary bus travel gives people who might otherwise be restricted a greater sense of independence and helps them remain in contact with their friends and family. Funding for the scheme has increased every year since its introduction and with the scheme helping older people, disabled people – and now injured armed services veterans too – to make almost 147 million journeys last year, it is vital the scheme continues.
“The Scottish Government’s continued investment in this vital lifeline service is excellent news for everyone who benefits from this service – and I am delighted that people in Midlothian will continue to do so.”
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