When are you going to get to grips with Transport for Wales which is failing the people of Wales?”

Paul Davies AM says: “Transport for Wales is not delivering for this country”.

The Leader of the Opposition took Mark Drakeford to task over Welsh transport woes during First Minister’s Questions today (January 7).

His questions followed news over Christmas that pre-tax losses at state-owned Cardiff Airport had TREBLED since last year while its value is now just a THIRD (£15 million) of what the Welsh Labour Government paid for it only six years ago. There were also further problems with rail services provided by state-run Transport for Wales (TfW).

In the last week, trains were cancelled, postponed, arrived late or – unusually – left early, leaving commuters and holidaymakers stranded, and looking forward to a grim new year. A leaked report showed, too, that TfW had broken the law nine times by failing to meet Welsh language standards.

Mr Davies continued to question an evasive First Minister, and said:

“This time Transport for Wales blamed staff shortages and training for the delays, but First Minister it’s the same problems just a different excuse every time.

“Like Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, when are you going to get to grips with Transport for Wales which is failing the people of Wales?”

Speaking later, Mr Davies added:

“It’s understandable that the First Minister was evasive and reluctant to answer any questions. He is embarrassed, and should be. Under his failing Welsh Labour administration, transport – just like health and education – are letting down the people and businesses of Wales.”