ScotRail has officially been brought back into public ownership and will be run by the Scottish Government after 25 years out of public hands.
Services from ScotRail were previously run by Abellio prior to being brought back into public ownership.
First Minister Nicole Sturgeon spoke today at Glasgow Queen Street Station on the future plans for ScotRail.
The First Minister said: “This historic and momentous occasion marks the delivery of a key milestone in our ambitious Programme for Government.
“Everyone involved has worked extremely hard to deliver the smooth transition of ScotRail into public control and ownership.
“This new beginning creates a real opportunity to deliver a railway which is for the nation.
“Rail plays a key role in helping to meet our climate change targets and cut transport emissions.
“ScotRail passenger services are a central plank in our ambitious decarbonisation plans – backed by £5bn over this Parliament - to support thriving, resilient and diverse communities.”
We're on board the 0456 Inverness to Edinburgh train, which is the first service as ScotRail Trains. pic.twitter.com/d3XJLo6I48
— ScotRail (@ScotRail) April 1, 2022
Alex Hynes, Scotland’s Railway Managing Director spoke on the significance of the move bringing ScotRail into public hands.
Mr Hynes said: “This is a very important day for Scotland’s Railway.
“It is a significant moment as we make the transition to public ownership.
“It’s an exciting new chapter and provides us with a fantastic opportunity to shape the future for rail travel in Scotland.
“The last couple of years have accelerated the change needed in our industry as we seek to keep pace with the different ways our customers now travel.
“Our customers will remain at heart of Scotland’s Railway, as we look to modernise the way we work.
“I am looking forward to continuing to deliver the high quality of service that our customers expect and deserve.”
