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Bus Fare Hike will hit the poorest hardest

Wednesday 18 May 2011, 4:38PM

By Labour Party

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NEW PLYMOUTH

News today that the cost of taking the bus in Palmerston North is set to jump by 25% is just another blow to those struggling to make ends meet says Palmerston North MP Iain Lees-Galloway.

“People from all walks of life use the bus for all sorts of reasons. But those who depend on the bus service the most are those who can’t afford a car or for some reason, are not able to drive a car or ride a bike. People with disabilities will be hit particularly hard by this hike.

“The cost of living is already out of control. Food prices are going up, power prices are going up, fuel prices are going up and now people have contend with this massive hike in the cost of public transport.

“As per usual at the moment, those who have the least have to bear the brunt of higher prices.

“As a nation we need to be doing better. Tax cuts should be shared more fairly, GST should come off fresh fruit and vegetables and we should be investing in research to reduce our dependence on oil.”

Iain Lees-Galloway says he understands the pressure that Horizons Regional Council is under given that GST has increased to 15% and fuel prices have gone through the roof. “They have to get the money from somewhere but for the burden to fall on those already struggling the most is just wrong.”