Launch of the £1 Bus Fare – The Welsh Liberal Democrats Delivering for Young People
The Welsh Liberal Democrats have celebrated the launch of the new mytravelpass scheme today, which will provide £1 bus fares for young people across Wales, as a major step forward in improving opportunities and tackling the cost-of-living crisis.
The mytravelpass scheme, which young people can apply for here, was delivered as a result of a budget deal between Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds and the Welsh Government this spring.
The scheme will be open to all 16-21-year-olds in Wales from September 1st, before being widened to all young people in November. Those with a mytravelpass can access: £1 single tickets, £3 unlimited daily travel and 30% off weekly, monthly or yearly tickets.
The Welsh Liberal Democrats, who have long championed the policy, said the move would make it easier for young people to access education, training and jobs, as well as social and leisure opportunities that may otherwise have been out of reach due to high transport costs.
According to the Welsh Liberal Democrats, the new fare will not only remove barriers to opportunity but also encourage greater use of public transport. They argue that cheaper, more accessible travel for young people will help foster sustainable travel habits and play a part in reducing emissions and tackling climate change.
The party also stressed the particular benefits for young people living in rural areas. They said the £1 fare would act as a “lifeline” for those at risk of isolation, improving access to employment and helping to combat loneliness.
Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds MS welcomed the launch, saying the policy demonstrates the positive impact her party is having in the Senedd, and argued that with more members elected next May, they could deliver even greater change.
Commenting on the launch of mytravelpass, Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds MS said:
“I’m delighted to see this Welsh Liberal Democrat policy come into effect today.
“The cost-of-living crisis has hit young people hard, but now, young people across Wales will find it easier to travel to education, meet friends, and crucially, access jobs.
“This £1 bus fare is a transformational step forward for young people. It shows the real impact Welsh Liberal Democrats are having in the Senedd. With more Liberal Democrat Members elected next May, we’ll be able to deliver even greater change for communities across Wales.”
ENDS