[Greens-Media] State of Origin kicks off rail commuters

[Alison Orme]

MEDIA RELEASE - 23 May 2006

State of Origin kicks off rail commuters

Greens MP and transport spokesperson Lee Rhiannon says the need for
CityRail to cancel 10 evening peak hour trains tomorrow night to cater
for the State of Origin shows just how second rate Sydney's rail
service has become.

"Commuters travelling home from work tomorrow night will be
disadvantaged because the State government has failed to build a work
class rail network.
 
"Experts say that a city the size of Sydney should be able to handle
both peak hour services and a major event like the State of Origin at
Olympic Park, without cancelling services.

"CityRail lacks the rolling stock necessary to cope with midweek
special events like the State of Origin. There is now no shortage of
train drivers, with recent reports revealing many are sitting around
with nothing to do.  

"Years of under investment in CityRail by the NSW government has left
commuters on the Cumberland, Northern, Western and South lines in the
lurch.

"The Minister for Transport John Watkins knew this event was coming
up months ago. 

"The cancellation of services shows the dismal state of CityRail's
planning and capacity," Ms Rhiannon said. 

For more information Lee Rhiannon: 9230 3551, 0427 861 568



Alison Orme
Adviser, Greens MLC Lee Rhiannon (p/t Tues, Wed)
Macquarie St, Sydney 2000
Tel: +61-2-9230 3551 Fax: +61-2-9230 3550
Mobile: 0432 332 104
Email alison.orme at parliament.nsw.gov.au 
Web www.leerhiannon.org.au