2.3million people in Scotland benefit from Concessionary Travel. On Friday 22nd of March, the Fair Fares Review was published by Transport Scotland and the scheme of concessionary travel across Scotland will continue. It is also planned to extend it to: free bus travel for people seeking asylum; extending free travel on rail services for companions accompanying eligible Blind Persons Concessionary Travel Card holders; free foot passenger travel on inter-island ferries for under 22 year old island residents within the Outer Hebrides, Orkney, and Shetland Island groups; and extend the existing National Ferry Concessionary Scheme to under 22 year old island residents.
MSP for the Highlands & Islands Emma Roddick, SNP, has welcomed the Fair Fares Review and developing the proposals to introduce free foot passenger travel on inter-island ferries for island residents who are under 22.
Emma Roddick said:
“I am delighted to hear that the Scottish Government is beginning work on introducing free inter-island ferry travel for young folk living in the islands.”
“I recently spoke with the team at the SIC Youth & Employability Service and we spoke about how valuable the existing free bus travel scheme is for young folk in Shetland, giving them the freedom to travel around the islands for work, education, or to meet friends and socialise.
“The introduction of free inter-island ferries for under-22’s would only improve the lives of young folk in our islands further, giving them greater freedom to take up opportunities across the islands. It recognises that, for many, inter-island ferries are a necessary part of daily life, like buses are for others.
“It is fantastic that the Scottish Government has listened to campaigners, MSYPs, and local representatives – including me – who have been calling for action on this issue.”
Fiona Grahame
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