Buses are the most commonly used form of public transport, yet services have been allowed to decline for decades.
The privatisation of the bus networks by Thatcher’s government in the 80s saw the number of routes plummet and fewer passengers year on year.
Even with modest investments in the 2000s and better vehicles, the number of bus routes has dropped by more than
40 per cent since 2006.
There has been a 10 per cent decrease in the last year alone.
Scotland’s bus network, with a few exceptions, is a story of decline.
People living in rural areas, far from big cities, rely on buses more than most.
Many communities lost their railway stations in the 60s and have had to make do with often erratic bus services in the years since.
Not everyone can afford to run a car, and even those who do drive should still have the option of a decent, affordable public transport network in their area.
Bus travel is often relegated to the foot of the political agenda.
Local councils speak up for their services but still lack the powers to force private operators to save them.
The environmental consequences of this decline are obvious. Without reliable public transport, private car ownership climbs ever higher.
Already congested roads grow ever busier. And older Scots, or those from less well-off areas, are left to depend on ever worsening bus services.
It’s a poor state of affairs and an issue the Scottish Government must address in 2025.
A right to speak without fear
In any democracy people have the right to speak out if they believe wrongdoing has occurred.
They should be able to report matters to the relevant authorities without fear of negative reprisals.
But in the age of social media, that’s increasingly difficult to do if you’re already in the public eye.
Sean Clerkin wasn’t the only person to make complaints to police, which ultimately led to the launch of Operation Branchform.
He is, however, the best known and has endured some dreadful abuse online as a result.
We don’t yet know how the police investigation into SNP finances will ultimately pan out, and it would be wrong to prejudge it.
But the point still stands that people should be able to come forward and raise concerns in all walks of life, without being abused for doing so.
We can’t let people be silenced by the vicious nature of online trolls.
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