Janet Finch-Saunders AM has called on the Welsh Government to introduce free bus travel for all 16 to 24 year olds in Wales.

The proposals – put forward by the Welsh Conservatives – are intended to help reduce economic burdens on the younger generation, and improve access to education, training and employment.

Janet said:

“This policy encourages greener travel, would reduce road traffic accidents and congestion, and enables young people to save money on transport costs – perhaps helping them to save for a house deposit instead.

“It also opens up accessibility to education, training and employment. 40% of job seekers say that their job search is limited because of the travel costs involved, so it is clear what a difference this policy could make to the 57,400 young people in Wales who are Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEET).”

ENDS

Just 15,000 16-18 year olds have applied for a Welsh Government ‘MyTravelPass’ – just 13% of those eligible.

The Welsh Government is currently consulting on bus travel for young people: https://consultations.gov.wales/consultations/discounted-bus-travel-younger-people-wales

23% of drivers involved in motorised vehicles accidents (and 21% of those involved in serious or fatal accidents) are aged 24 or under