N.S. Liberals promise free public transit if elected [Video]

HALIFAX –

Nova Scotia’s Opposition Liberals say the province will be the first in Canada to offer free public transit if they form the next government.

In a campaign-style announcement Tuesday, Liberal Leader Zach Churchill said $65.6 million in proposed funding would eliminate existing transit fares, while helping to expand transit systems.

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“We would be the first province to provide free public transit to people,” Churchill said in an interview after his announcement at a municipal transit terminal in the Halifax suburb of Cole Harbour.

Churchill said daily commuters who use public transit could save up to $1,080 a year, with seniors saving about $800 a year. In addition, people who switch from driving their own vehicle to riding public transit could save more than $5,000 a year in gasoline, maintenance and parking costs.

“This will have a big impact on people’s finances,” Churchill said. …