11 Nov 2009: SEQ: Public transport fantasy and reality

[ozbob]

Media Release 11 November 2009

SEQ:  Public transport fantasy and reality

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport commuters has called for an external audit of public transport in South East Queensland.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"RAIL Back On Track is of the view that the go card system is presently not capable of supporting a 100% ticketing solution for public transport in south east Queensland.  Equipment that is constantly failing, not fit for purpose and a clumsy administrative support system means that many users will simply not be able to cope. A fare structure that attempts to force users to move from paper to go card is unacceptable, particularly so if the go card system is not fully functional at all levels."

"Despite constant failure and overloading on all public transport modes we are continued to be subject to apologies and then statements of success.  Calls for some sort of compensation for the constant personal financial impacts are simply dismissed with more statements, apologies and spin of how wonderful it all is."

"It is little wonder that many public transport commuters are at breaking point and have been forced to seek alternative transport solutions, usually motor vehicle adding to the chronic chaos on the roads."

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org