Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach says the recommendations from a new report on inter-community bus service don’t go far enough for Canadians.
Last February, Bachrach proposed a study of the state of Canada’s inter-regional bus service, which ultimately led to four days of hearings.
During that time, the Standing Committee on Transportation heard testimonies from the public, local governments, bus operators, and more.
They spoke to the serious negative impacts the lack of safe and reliable inter-community transportation has on small and marginalized communities.
Those include a loss of access to jobs, education and health care services, and a reduced ability to escape domestic violence and avoid unsafe travel methods.
A report tabled yesterday brought forward 7 recommendations, mostly related to working with Provinces and stakeholders to address gaps.
But, Bachrach says it’s high time for Ottawa to step up and establish a nation-wide bus service to replace what was once offered by Greyhound.
Bachrach acknowledged BC’s renewal of northern bus services, but says it still falls well short of what was once available.
