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Brussels – Deep cuts to public transport services across Flanders are facing mounting criticism from coalition partners and even within the governing N-VA party, but Flemish Minister of Mobility Annick De Ridder remains steadfast in her commitment to the austerity measures. The planned reductions, totaling €35.5 million, are set to impact bus routes and frequencies, sparking concerns about accessibility, particularly in rural areas.
The controversy centers around De Lijn, the Flemish public transport company, which is being forced to implement the savings. While De Ridder defends the cuts as necessary, critics argue they will disproportionately affect those reliant on public transport, creating isolation and hindering access to essential services. The situation highlights a growing tension between budgetary constraints and the commitment to expanding public transport options.
Coalition Fractures Over Transport Cuts
The proposed cuts have triggered a significant rift within the Flemish government. Both CD&V and Vooruit, key coalition partners, are calling for a review of the plans. Els Robeyns (Vooruit) stated that simply eliminating bus routes without providing alternatives is unacceptable, and urged De Lijn to reconsider its approach if all transport region councils object. An Christiaens (cd&v) echoed this sentiment, criticizing the “take it or leave it” approach.
The opposition isn’t limited to coalition partners. Several N-VA mayors and aldermen have also voiced their disapproval, signaling internal dissent within the minister’s own party. This growing resistance underscores the widespread concern over the potential consequences of the cuts.
Impact on Rural Communities
The Westhoek region is bracing for a €1.035.962 reduction in funding, leading to the cancellation, limitation, or alteration of several bus lines. According to Kenniswest.be, line 62 between Poperinge and Hazebrouck is among those affected. The Vervoerregioraad (Transport Region Council) of the Westhoek has warned that the region has “simply run out of room” to absorb further cuts.
Similar concerns are being raised in Limburg, where seven bus lines are at risk of being eliminated. Critics argue that these cuts demonstrate a disregard for the needs of rural communities and will exacerbate existing mobility challenges. One commentator, as reported by HBVL, stated, “Whoever views mobility solely as a numerical exercise should simply abolish De Lijn in Limburg.”
De Ridder Defends Austerity Measures
Despite the widespread opposition, Minister De Ridder remains resolute. She acknowledged the cuts are “not pleasant” but defended the require for fiscal responsibility. According to VRT NWS, De Ridder stated, “An exercise in savings for which you get applause in all transport regions and municipalities? That does not exist.” She justified the cuts by pointing to routes with an average occupancy of only eight passengers, questioning whether these could be justified in “budgetarily hard times.”
De Ridder also emphasized her commitment to the planned expansion of public transport, with an additional €50 million per year earmarked for De Lijn starting in 2027, ultimately reaching €125 million in 2029. However, this long-term investment does little to alleviate the immediate concerns surrounding the current cuts.
Union Response and Potential Disruption
The planned cuts have prompted a strong response from De Lijn’s unions, who have announced a nine-day strike in March and April. A broad coalition advocating for strong public transport has also sent an open letter to the minister expressing their concerns. The potential for significant disruption to services looms as the dispute escalates.
On March 2nd, the Limburg transport region council will vote on the proposed savings plan. Hasselt’s mayor, Steven Vandeput (N-VA), has already announced his city’s opposition to the plan, further highlighting the divisions surrounding the issue.
The future of public transport in Flanders hangs in the balance as the debate over these cuts continues. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Minister De Ridder can maintain her course in the face of mounting pressure, or if a compromise can be reached to mitigate the impact on communities across the region.
What comes next will depend on the outcome of the Limburg vote and the response of De Lijn’s unions. The situation underscores the complex challenges of balancing budgetary constraints with the need for accessible and reliable public transport. Share your thoughts on the future of public transport in the comments below.
