Joel James MS, Senedd Member for South Wales Central, has once again asked the Welsh Government to intervene and take action against RCT Council's decision to withdraw home-to-school transport for children living within three miles of their school.
Speaking to Ken Skates MS, the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Joel stated:
This decision, made under the guise of cost saving, has felt like a gut punch to countless families, especially when the council holds a staggering £250 million in usable reserves. The consequences are already unfolding before our eyes. Roads around schools are now choked with traffic as parents scramble to fill the gap left by school buses, air quality is deteriorating and working parents are stretched thinner than ever.
The Member also highlighted community concerns that children are now walking along busy and dangerous roads, with many constituents believing that it is only a matter of time before a serious accident occurs.
Joel noted that the decision is not just a logical failure, but a moral one.
Closing his contribution, Joel asked the Cabinet Secretary directly whether he supported reinstating home-to-school transport in RCT and what action he would take to ensure the council reconsiders this deeply damaging decision.
Speaking outside the Chamber, Joel said:
Right from the start, I've been supporting residents battling these plans. Rhondda Cynon Taf Council's decision to cut home to school transport is wrong!
Families shouldn't have to choose between safety and affordability.
I again urge the Welsh Government to take action against this damaging decision.
To watch Joel's contribution in full, please click here.
