Online backlash against TransLink over homeless transit plan

By

VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – It seems not many of you are “on board” with a plan by TransLink to continue extending free transit to the homeless once the Compass Card kicks in this fall.

Dozens of you have been leaving angry comments online right here at News1130.com.

Kim writes, “What a terrible idea. Yes, lets let the homeless ride around for free stinking up the place. And who would pay for their free transit exactly? Everyone else.”

Roland says, “Way to go… Nothing makes transit more attractive than the experience of sitting next to a guy who hasn’t washed in a week.”

Amy wonders, “How is that fair to the actual contributing citizens of society who have to pay full fare just to go from A to B?”

It has been common practice for years to waive fares for the homeless.

The problem now is how to keep doing that with the implementation of the Compass Card system in the fall.

Critics, including the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, say TransLink’s lack of foresight and planning on the issue is inexcusable.

Not everyone is complaining though, some are suggesting solutions.

Watson writes, “One option to consider is to issue annual bus passes to those on social assistance.”

“Compass cards could be programmed to allow them to ride for free on off peak hours only.”

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today