Claire Baker MSP has criticised the Scottish Government’s “failure” to act on anti-social behaviour on buses.
The Mid Scotland and Fife MSP has critiqued the Scottish Government for not delivering on its promise to introduce legislation that would allow concessionary bus passes to be removed in cases of serious and persistent anti-social behaviour.
Agriculture and connectivity minister, Jim Fairlie, sought approval at the Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee last week for a Scottish Statutory Instrument that would enable this process.
However, the minister did not provide the Committee with the Code of Conduct that would underpin the process and was unable to answer questions from Committee members on how it would work.
Claire Baker said: “People across Mid Scotland and Fife rely on buses every day - to get to work, school, college, medical appointments or other commitments. They should be able to do so safely, without fear of abuse, intimidation or violence.
“Bus drivers in particular are on the frontline and have been clear that antisocial behaviour can be increasingly difficult to manage. They were promised action, but the Scottish Government has failed to deliver.”
This comes after a several incidents of anti-social behaviour on buses in West and Central Fife.
Police admitted in October last year that poor behaviour at Dunfermline Bus Station is a problem "we may never crack".
As well as issues there, last year a grandmother from Lochgelly was hounded off a Stagecoach bus by a gang of youths.
Claire Baker added: “There is no shortage of agreement on the problem, and no shortage of promises. What is missing is delivery. Necessary information is not being provided to Parliament and the whole process is being slowed down as a result.
“This is about protecting workers, supporting passengers and making our buses safer for everyone.”
A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: “The SSI was the point to be debated at the committee appearance, not the draft code of conduct.
"Finalising guidance once the legislation is set is not an unusual process, however the Minister told the committee he would be happy to share the draft guidance with them and would welcome their input on it.
"We are engaged with all key stakeholders to ensure there is fairness and equity in the legislation. It is a complex piece of legal work which should not be rushed.
"We know there is clear demand for this legislation from across the bus sector, the public and politicians and we will look to bring it forward as soon as possible."
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