As the Hong Kong government prepares to unveil its budget for the 2025/26 fiscal year at the end of February, Financial Secretary Paul Chan has indicated potential adjustments to the"$2 Scheme" for seniors.
This initiative is projected to cost over HK$6 billion in the current 2024/25 fiscal year, a staggering 3.2 times increase from four years ago. However, questions arise about the effectiveness of this spending, especially as reports of abuse become more prevalent.
Recent observations reveal a troubling trend among some seniors who are exploiting the program by taking long-distance buses for short trips. For instance, some seniors board more expensive routes, such as the HK$12.9 905 bus line, only to disembark after just a few stops, wasting significant public funds. One senior candidly shared, "I see a bus and I just get on; it's not my loss, it's the government's." This attitude reflects a broader disregard for the responsible use of taxpayer money.
Legislators are now calling for a comprehensive review of the "$2 Scheme" to ensure public funds are utilized effectively. Under this scheme, seniors benefit from substantial subsidies funded by the government, rather than from the generosity of transport operators. Yet, many are taking advantage of this arrangement, riding longer routes while disembarking prematurely, leading to unnecessary expenditure.
A recent visit to the Western District highlighted the overlap between long-distance and short-distance bus routes, leading to further misuse of the subsidy. Despite the availability of shorter, cheaper options, seniors often opt for convenience, boarding whichever bus arrives first. This not only strains the budget but also underscores the inefficiencies in the current bus service schedules.
Some seniors, like Ms. Yiu, expressed indifference toward the financial implications of their choices. Living in Sai Ying Pun, she admitted that she frequently takes long buses to work, simply because she is eligible for the HK$2 fare. "I don't care about the costs; I just want the convenience," she stated, reflecting a common sentiment among her peers.
With the issues of misuse and inefficiency in mind, lawmakers propose a tiered fare system where seniors would pay based on the distance traveled. This could help reduce government subsidies and ensure that funds are allocated more judiciously. Additionally, some legislators advocate reinstating a half-fare system for seniors, sharing the financial burden between transport operators and the government.
As the government prepares to address these critical issues, it must also focus on educating seniors about responsible use of the subsidy. Improving access to real-time bus information could help seniors make more informed decisions about their travel, reducing instances of misuse.
In light of the financial challenges facing Hong Kong, it is imperative to rethink the "$2 Scheme". Establishing usage limits and refining the program could enhance its sustainability while ensuring that public resources are used wisely. As we await the budget announcement, the conversation surrounding these changes will be crucial for shaping a more efficient and equitable transport system for all.
Related News:
Winnie Ho: proposed legislation to strengthen measures against public housing abuse
Comment