[Greens-Media] NW Metro gone: Rees must borrow for heavy rail, can new motorways, Greens

[Alison Orme]

Greens MP Lee Rhiannon - 31 October 2008

North West Metro gone: Rees must borrow for heavy rail, can new motorways 

Greens MP and transport spokesperson is urging the Premier Nathan Rees to use next week's mini-budget to announce he will borrow funds to build the North West rail line and other public transport infrastructure, now he has canned the North West Metro.

"Now the North West Metro albatross has flown Nathan Rees should be at the bank organising a loan to enable him to invest in essential heavy rail, light rail and bus services," Ms Rhiannon said.

"Rees can make savings by canning new motorway projects like the M4 East and the Port Botany truck tunnel.

"The Premier needs to pursue borrowing to build important new heavy rail infrastructure because this is a key to job creation and economic prosperity.

"Borrowing to build key infrastructure that Sydney is so desperate for is a much smarter idea than bunkering down in the desperate hope of holding onto a AAA rating.

"The government should drop its plans for new road projects, not turn its back on new rail infrastructure.

"The NSW government is quick to look for cash by privatising services, picking low hanging fruit like lotteries and waste services. 

"But now the North West Metro has been axed, Mr Rees must redirect his energies to find money to build heavy and light rail infrastructure not roads.

"Rees is keen to distinguish himself as a thoughtful, visionary premier.

"Bold plans are needed to build Sydney's public transport system.

"Next week's mini-budget is the Premier's once in a lifetime opportunity to make his mark," Ms Rhiannon said. 

For more information: 9230 3551, 0427 861 568


Alison Orme
Adviser, Greens MLC Lee Rhiannon (p/t Wed-Fri)
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