Discussion on Public Transport: Children’s Ombudsman and Youth Councils Convene in Reykjavik
Over the weekend, a significant meeting took place involving the Children’s Ombudsman, the Youth Councils from the Reykjavik metropolitan area, and UNICEF. The focus of this gathering was to address the issues surrounding the public transport system, Strætó, with a specific emphasis on the needs and safety of children and adolescents. Dagur Jónsson and Júlíana Rós Skúladóttir, representing the youth, participated in the meeting and shared their insights on the national radio program, Mannlega þátturinn on Rás 1.
Key Issues and Suggestions Raised by Youth Representatives
The primary objective of the meeting was to establish a formal dialogue between young people, Strætó, and local municipalities to discuss potential improvements to the bus system. Júlíana Rós Skúladóttir highlighted the dual nature of the issues, stating, “There is much that can be improved, and also much that is done well.” The discussions covered various aspects including rural access, safety, payment methods, fare structures, and communication between bus drivers and young passengers.
A recurring point of criticism from children and adolescents is the poor communication with bus drivers. They often feel disregarded or face challenges when lodging complaints or suggestions. Júlíana emphasized, “Children have a lot to say about Strætó as it’s their main, if not only, mode of transportation.”
Safety Concerns and Proposed Solutions
Safety, especially for marginalized children and those with disabilities, was a major topic. Dagur Jónsson pointed out, “There needs to be better access and safety measures within the buses, not just for young children but also for the elderly.” Speeding buses pose a risk, and passengers have sometimes felt unsafe due to the behavior of others.
The youth council proposed implementing a discreet safety number that passengers could text for assistance, as opposed to a visible panic button. This would provide a more subtle way for passengers to seek help without drawing attention to themselves.
Communication Breakdown and Need for Improvement
The meeting also addressed specific incidents of poor communication between bus drivers and young passengers. Dagur recounted an experience where a bus driver behaved inappropriately, emphasizing the need for Strætó to address these behaviors. “It’s crucial for Strætó to engage with their staff to ensure good communication and a pleasant experience for passengers,” Dagur stated.
Addressing Accessibility and Fare Issues
There was unanimous agreement on the necessity of improving safety protocols. Júlíana noted issues such as buses not being equipped with ramps for children with disabilities, which Strætó claimed was outside the drivers’ responsibilities. However, ensuring access for all should be a fundamental aspect of the service, necessitating a re-evaluation of current protocols.
Another contentious issue is the fare policy. Currently, children under 12 ride for free. However, there have been instances where drivers doubted the age of the children and refused them entry. Strætó is introducing a keychain system for easy identification, but Júlíana suggested extending free rides to all children under 18. “Providing free transportation until 18 would encourage lifelong public transport use and promote equality among all children,” she argued.
Conclusion and Broader Implications
The meeting facilitated by the Children’s Ombudsman, Youth Councils, and UNICEF marks a significant step towards reforming the Strætó system with children’s needs in mind. The discussions brought forward by Dagur Jónsson and Júlíana Rós Skúladóttir highlight the importance of addressing communication, safety, and accessibility issues within public transport.
As public transport systems worldwide face similar challenges, the insights from this meeting could serve as a model for other cities aiming to improve their services with an emphasis on inclusivity and safety for younger populations. The proposed changes not only aim to enhance the current system but also foster a culture of public transport usage among future generations, promoting sustainability and equality in urban mobility.