Golding Raises Concerns Over Rural Bus System During Budget Debate

Opposition Leader Mark Golding has taken aim at the government’s management of the rural school transportation system, labeling the approach a poor policy decision.

Speaking during his presentation in the 2026/2027 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, Golding expressed concern about the direction and execution of the initiative, which was introduced last year.

The rural bus service, rolled out in September 2025, was designed to improve transportation access for students in underserved communities. However, the programme has faced several operational challenges since its launch. Among the issues highlighted is the limited uptake of the cashless payment system by students.

Despite these setbacks, government officials maintain that the initiative holds significant promise. Authorities have also announced plans to expand the fleet by adding 100 additional buses in an effort to strengthen the service.

Golding, however, argued that an alternative strategy proposed by the Opposition would have been more effective. He pointed to the People’s National Party’s Rural Initiative for Delivering Education (RIDE), outlined in its 2025 general election manifesto, as a more viable solution to address transportation needs in rural areas.