Letters, Sept. 14
Transit troubles and passes Re: Growing pains? Maybe, but it’s worth it, Think Tank, Sept. 10. Worth it for who? Our transit system has been undergoing growing pains for the […]
Letters, September 14
The annual subscription for the city's transit system now costs $205.00 plus GST for the first year. This price includes a 10% discount off the regular annual cost of $259.35. Subscribers will continue to pay $233.00 plus GST each year thereafter. This annual fee is subject to renewal. The offer is limited to new and qualified returning subscribers only. Subscribers may cancel at any time.
Growing pains have been a challenge for Winnipeg's transit system since its redesign, resulting in reduced ridership and a projected $18 million revenue deficit this year. When factoring in the $126 million annual subsidy for operating Winnipeg Transit, the total annual taxpayer contribution reaches $144 million. Additionally, an estimated 65,000 students are eligible for free youth transit passes, further increasing the subsidy burden.
Dan Hendry argues that encouraging youth to use public transit will lead to lifelong positive behavior. However, this claim seems misguided, as many students already possess cars and can easily avoid public transit upon reaching adulthood. Encouraging bus usage among these students would significantly reduce the need for public transit services, ultimately benefiting taxpayers.
While the introduction of free youth transit passes is supported, their effectiveness in boosting ridership is questionable. The real purpose of such a program might be to create the appearance of success for a poorly designed transit system. Instead, a comprehensive and functional public transit system is needed to encourage widespread use.
In response to Canada's retaliatory tariffs on the U.S., a radio talk show featured an economics professor from Toronto Metropolitan University. The professor cautioned against Canada's decision to match U.S. tariffs dollar for dollar, comparing it to a boxer facing a 20-year-old Mike Tyson. He predicted that Canada could suffer significant economic consequences, such as industry decimation and skyrocketing inflation.
The professor urged Prime Minister Mark Carney to return to the negotiating table to avoid a damaging trade war.
Written by urgent.news from Winnipeg Free Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
