3. Business Statement and Announcement

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:08 pm on 17 September 2019.

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Photo of Rebecca Evans Rebecca Evans Labour 3:08, 17 September 2019

Transport for Wales is managing the issue of the new-style concessionary travel cards across Wales on behalf of the Welsh Government and the 22 local authorities. The scheme is still owned by the local councils. The new-style cards will offer the same free travel rights and benefits as the current card, and the new-style cards are required because the current bus passes won't be recognised on electronic readers on buses after 31 December this year. The new cards, crucially, are also designed to work as part of an integrated travel network in the future. It's true to say that Transport for Wales has experienced an exceptionally high volume of hits to their new concessionary travel card site since its launch on 11 September. I've had, as many Members will, many members of the public contact me about this. Transport for Wales has taken down the new website to boost the capacity to better manage the traffic, and I understand that it will be back in operation today. But, really, the message to current cardholders is that there really is plenty of time to apply for those new cards. Their cards will be accepted right through until 31 December 2019, so we do encourage applicants to visit the website in the coming days, once demand has reduced.