Elaine Smith MSP has recently spoken in a debate in the Scottish Parliament to call for the re-regulation of bus services.
The MSP for Coatbridge and Chryston has been vigorously campaigning for the provision of better bus services in her constituency.
Speaking in Parliament, Elaine said:
“Coatbridge and Chryston has one of the lowest levels of car ownership in the country—nearly 40 per cent of households have no car.”
“Because of the bus issues that have been brought to my attention, I undertook to campaign for bus reregulation, and thousands of my constituents joined me in signing a petition for better buses.”
“One thing that was perfectly clear during that campaign was that the current, deregulated system is not working in terms of providing those lifeline services in my constituency.”
“In Carnbroe and Townhead last year, people were left with no buses at all. On that occasion, I contacted Councillor Fagan at the SPT, which ensured that bus services were quickly provided. However, the SPT cannot always step in, as it has a fixed budget.”
“In November, I addressed a public meeting on buses that was organised by Coatbridge Federation of Tenants & Residents Associations.”
“At that meeting, the SPT advised a further withdrawal of services from Coatbridge by private operators this month. The 62 service, which connects Coatbridge with Glasgow, will cease, cutting off south Coatbridge in the evenings and at weekends. That is completely unacceptable.”
“The Scottish Government is not standing up for ordinary people on the issue. The sad reality is that the SNP seems to be on the side of the big bus companies.”
“If it wants to change that perception, it should immediately evaluate the privatised bus industry and ensure that its focus is on accountability, affordability and service provision.”
“That would show us that the big private profiteers operate simply to boost their already swollen coffers, not to provide a public service.”
