The leader of the Left Party proposes providing free public transportation passes to 18-year-olds and demanding hourly connections in all areas.
The Left Party's leader, Martin Schirdewan, suggests providing free one-year bus and train passes to 18-year-olds as a way of enticing more young people to use public transport. This proposal follows Austria's lead in offering this perk to its citizens. Schirdewan insists that access to public transportation should not be determined by someone's financial status.
In Austria, 18-year-olds can travel by bus and train for free during their first year after turning 18. Schirdewan suggests Germany should adopt this approach. Additionally, he proposes granting six free long-distance train trips annually to those who subscribe to the 49-euro ticket.
The success of the 49-euro ticket demonstrates the willingness of individuals to shift their travel preferences when local public transport options are affordable. However, many regional trains are struggling with overcrowding, as long-distance train prices are exorbitant, especially for occasional travelers. As a result, Schirdewan suggests enhancing the appeal of the 49-euro ticket by incorporating six complimentary long-distance journeys as part of the package.
Schirdewan spoke in Berlin about the necessity of a substantial investment program to decrease the cost of local public transportation. This would necessitate the acquisition of new vehicles, higher salaries for employees in the sector, and an uninterrupted hourly connection to every town in Germany. In rural areas, this would involve expanding on-demand services using on-demand buses and cabs, as well as encouraging a resurgence of the ride-sharing culture.
Martin Schirdewan emphasized that transportation contributes to nearly a quarter of the greenhouse gases emitted in Europe and that these emissions are increasing. The Left Party is thus pushing for a fair transition towards cleaner forms of transportation, focusing on climate protection. To fund this undertaking, the party calls for a Europe-wide wealth tax.
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After advocating for free public transportation passes for 18-year-olds and better connections in all areas, Schirdewan drew inspiration from Austria's implementation of this perk. The left-wing leader suggested Germany adopt a similar approach, while also proposing six free long-distance train trips annually for 49-euro ticket holders.
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