The Minns Labor Government has shamefully voted down a public interest debate to keep the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card, despite more than 22,000 people signing a petition to save the vital cost of living measure.
Seven Nationals MPs were denied leave to speak on the issue, gagged by Labor at the last minute.
NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders said this is a low blow for regional communities, with the card on the chopping block in next week’s budget.
“Last night we fought hard for the Regional Seniors Travel Card on the floor of Parliament, to give a voice to the thousands of regional seniors who are upset and concerned that the Premier is going to axe this program,” Mr Saunders said.
“The Regional Seniors Travel Card has become a local lifeline right across the bush, helping our seniors maintain their independence by allowing them to visit their loved ones or run important errands.
“The funding can go towards all forms of travel from petrol to train fares, taxis and community transport, which is also alleviating pressure at a time where every household is really feeling the pinch.”
Labor suspended the card on July 7, making spurious claims about the scheme being abused.
Shadow Minister for Seniors Bronnie Taylor said those accusations are insulting and extremely disappointing.
“Labor is spreading these absurd claims that our senior citizens are using their card to buy cigarettes or pies at the service station,” Mrs Taylor said.
“Not only is this completely ludicrous but it is a pathetic excuse from a government that clearly doesn’t care about the regions enough to prioritise successful programs like the Regional Seniors Travel Card that are actually making a difference.
“Whether it is a grandparent, parent, sibling or friend, we all know someone in our community who uses and relies on the card and Labor needs to explain why it is ripping more money away from our loved ones.”
Since 2020, 1.3 million cards have been issued including 333,731 that were delivered between January 1 and when the program was suspended on July 7.
