Politicians Put Their Transport Vision To Workers

The RTBU recently held its final in a series of Better Transport forums around the state at the Sydney Mechanics School of Arts. The forum was a momentous occasion, with many important ideas put forward and discussed.

It was the first time that senior representatives from all the major parties have shared a stage to talk directly with transport workers about transport issues.

It was also an opportunity for the RTBU to present its interim report on the outcomes of the transport forums so far. This document will be completed with the outcomes of the Sydney forum and provide the basis for further discussion on the transport needs of NSW into the future.

Greens Spokesperson for Transport Cate Faehrmann MLC spoke about the need for investment in major transport projects, including the North West and South West rail links and the Epping to Parramatta link.

Ms Faehrmann said the Greens believed that building a better transport system was more important than maintaining a Triple-A credit rating.

Shadow Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian MP said the Liberal Party would introduce a single integrated transport authority to coordinate train, bus and ferry services.  Ms Berejiklian said the Liberal Party had always supported the RTBU’s position that extending the existing CityRail network should be a priority before building a new metro network.  Ms Berejiklian also announced $60 million in funding to improve access for people with disabilities at train stations.

Parliamentary Secretary for Transport Penny Sharpe MLC acknowledged the tireless efforts of workers right across the public transport and rail freight sectors. Ms Sharpe said the Labor Party understood the need to improve safety on public transport, which was why it had introduced new late night ‘Guardian’ services.  Ms Sharpe noted the importance of the transport industry to local employment, especially in regional areas and also the popularity of the Metro buses now running right across Sydney.

It is clear transport has become one of the key issues in the State election. By taking a leading role in the transport debate, the RTBU is making sure the views and concerns of public transport users and workers are front and centre for all the major parties.