[Greens-Media] Inflated costings put rail infrastructure in jeopardy - Greens

[Peter Stahel]

Inflated costings put rail infrastructure in jeopardy - Greens 
 
The NSW Government is putting urgently needed rail projects at risk with grossly inflated cost estimates, according to Greens MP and spokesperson for transport, Cate Faehrmann. 
 
"During Budget Estimates hearings today, Minister John Robertson was unable to explain why New South Wales would have to pay up to six times more per kilometre for its rail infrastructure than Western Australia," said Ms Faehrmann.
 
"Commuters, business and the environment bear the burden of Sydney's terrible congestion problems. Meanwhile, the government announces delay after delay on new rail infrastructure. 
 
"Topography and land acquisition cannot explain the striking inconsistency between estimates here in New South Wales and elsewhere in Australia and overseas. 
 
"With a suite of advisors and department heads at hand, the Minister should have been able to provide an explanation without upsetting ongoing discussions with industry contractors.
 
"With urgent rail projects unable to proceed due to budgetary constraints, the figures should be reviewed by an independent body immediately," said Ms Faehrmann.
 
Media contact: Peter Stahel 0433 005 727

Peter Stahel
 
OFFICE OF CATE FAEHRMANN MLC
Parliament House, Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9230 2320 | Fax: 02 9230 2420 | Mobile: 0433 005 727