LOCHGELLY and Cardenden Councillor Ian Chisholm has welcomed clarity on concessionary travel passes for senior citizens which has been issued by the Scottish Government.

There has been concerns among pensioners that the passes which allow bus journeys all over Scotland, and train trips on the Fife Circle, might be a victim of spending restraints.

Mr Chisholm said, “Many senior citizens have spoken to me about concerns they might lose their bus passes in these difficult times.

“However, I am pleased to say that the Scottish Government have pledged £414 Million in a deal between Transport Scotland and Scotland’s bus industry to ensure over 60s citizens continue to travel free on any bus journey.” The SNP elected member continued, “There are currently around 1.2 million national entitlement card holders in Scotland benefiting from the scheme and my view has always been that those who sought to scrap the scheme were misguided in only looking at the direct costs. “The fact is it benefits society in other ways, for instance, we would need to pay more for the elderly to visit a GP either by taxi or a home visit. “And who can quantify the sheer boost to the spirit of a lonely pensioner in taking a bus trip up to say, Inverness, or to visit family and friends.” The councillor concluded, “It is a question of their quality of life and we owe it to senior citizens to improve that as much as we are able to. “The SNP Government have also expanded the scheme to now include injured armed services veterans…..a move I thoroughly endorse. So, I can say with confidence to our over 60s….enjoy your freedom to roam and explore Scotland’s treasures.”