The pending cancellation of Greyhound service in Western Canada is a concern, including for its impact on business activity and the health care of rural residents, says Mountain View County councillor Al Kemmere, who is also the president of the Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA).
“It’s unfortunate because there are communities that rely on the service,” Kemmere said. “To have this service gone is a real concern. From a rural health-care perspective it will create challenges, and for businesses.
“This will result in increased obstacles for rural Albertans in accessing health care and other personal or professional services.
“Though we recognize that some municipalities have prioritized the provision and funding of local regional transportation, the viability of these services is of constant concern and increased pressure will now exist to ensure Albertans have access to transportation options from all areas of the province.”
The RMA represents 69 rural municipalities.
“We are hoping they (federal and provincial governments) will create some incentive to try to encourage those carriers to fill the gaps that have been created,” he said.
“The RMA will continue to advocate for the need for supports that enable rural Albertans to connect with needed services and encourage the provincial and federal governments to identify innovative solutions that promote rural Alberta as a viable place to live and work.”
Greyhound announced last week that it would be ending service in Western Canada (except one Vancouver-Seattle route) at the end of October.
