Public transport needs to be rural and reliable

RELIABLE public transport is the key to educational and employment opportunities for young people across Dumfries and Galloway, says an MSP. Scottish Labour MSP Carol Mochan stressed the important role public transport plays in connecting rural areas across the region to towns and cities during a parliamentary debate. She said: “Whether it’s for employment purposes, attending hospital appointments, or even to visit family and friends, constituents depend on timely, reliable, and regular transport. “Across Dumfries and Galloway, distances between towns and villages can be tens of miles. Many opportunities for young people exist in larger towns and villages, or even stretch as far as Glasgow. “This means that many young people are completely reliant on public transport for educational, employment, and social purposes. “It is the responsibility of the Scottish Government to ensure this right is met, and access to affordable and reliable transport plays a huge role in this. “All Parliamentarians must work together to make the experiences of young people as fruitful and prosperous as they possibly can be. “Young people are our future, and we must continue to listen to their voices, support their calls, and work together to improve transport infrastructure, accessibility, and affordability for all young people across the country. “No one can be left behind.”