The view from inside one of STC’s last trips. Photo by Chelsea Laskowski.
The NDP opposition is concerned that the end of the STC bus service will turn some remote northern roads into highways of tears.
Deputy Opposition Leader, Warren McCall, says people are putting themselves at risk after being forced to hitchhike to get to where they need to go. During the daily question period, McCall again pleaded with the government to reserve the decision.
He says other unpopular budget moves have been rescinded, and so should this one. He says it is more than money that is at stake.
“Mental health councillors, Indigenous leaders and community members are speaking out,” he said. “They were all worried Saskatchewan well get its own highway of tears. We have all heard the stories. Since those members have voted to scrap STC, people are facing harassment, assault and even worse while hitchhiking.”
Government Minister, Dustin Duncan, says the provincial bus company has never made a dime since it opened. He says it would cost about $100 million over five years to keep it running. Money he says the government can’t afford to waste.
“And in the end, it was decided that the money that was being spent on the subsidies was estimated to be up to $100 million over five years, if we were to continue going forward with it,” he said.
The downtown bus depot has already been sold to the Regina Police Service, routes have been called and buses are being auctioned off.