The Welsh Youth Parliament (WYP), comprising 60 young representatives from various regions of Wales, has advocated for free public transportation for individuals under the age of 25.
According to their report, titled “Sustainable Ways,” this policy is deemed financially sustainable, as it encourages young people to utilize buses and trains for commuting, shopping, and social activities.
The report identified cost as the primary barrier to increased usage of public transportation among young people. However, Minister Lee Waters clarified that the Welsh government currently lacks the necessary funding to provide free bus rides for the youth.
The WYP’s climate and environment committee conducted a survey, titled “Sustainable Ways,” which gathered input from 1,300 young individuals regarding their travel habits.
Committee member Elena Ruddy said: “It’s a no-brainer really and if we set up these good habits in young people, they’re more likely to carry on using public transport when they’re older too.”
Out of the surveyed young individuals, 70% indicated that they take into account their environmental footprint when making travel choices.
Nearly half of the respondents expressed a strong inclination to use public transportation more frequently if it were complimentary for those under 25, while an additional 27% stated they would consider using it more often.
The Welsh government has set a target for the year 2040, aspiring to have 45% of all journeys conducted through public transport, walking, or cycling. In addition to cost, the survey participants emphasized the issue of public transportation accessibility, particularly in rural regions.
The WYP report puts forward a total of 13 recommendations, which encompass increased overall investment in public transportation and the development of secure active travel pathways. This report will be formally presented to the Welsh government, and the ministers will have the opportunity to provide their responses at an upcoming meeting in the following month.
Deputy Minister for Climate Change, Mr. Waters, who oversees the transport sector, stated: “I’m afraid we simply don’t have the funding to make buses free for young people.
“We do provide a discount of 1/3 to young people under 21 through the My TravelPass scheme, and a 1/3 rail discount is available on trains for holders of a young person’s Railcard.
“Under-16s can also travel for free on Transport for Wales trains when travelling with fare-paying adults.”
