Article: Incompetent Connex a measure for Metro

[ozbob]

From the Herald Sun click here!

Incompetent Connex a measure for Metro

Incompetent Connex a measure for Metro

    * Ashley Gardiner
    * From: Herald Sun
    * July 05, 2010 12:00AM

THE dismal performance of Connex is the official yardstick for measuring how well Metro needs to run its trains on time.

Metro's contract with the State Government also contains a provision that could see the operator sacked if its late train problem worsens.

On top of its requirement to run 88 per cent of trains on time, there are provisions to further penalise the operator.

Those provisions say Metro must deliver services on time, based on the performance of Connex for the 12 months leading up to May 31 last year.

Metro again failed to meet that target during June, but there was believed to be a slight improvement on May.

Premier John Brumby promised that Melbourne commuters would see immediate improvement under Metro.

Instead, passengers have suffered late trains, frequent service disruptions and communication breakdowns.

The State Government is believed to be keen to sheet home more blame on Metro as the November election approaches.

But the Government refused to answer questions about the contract when asked by the Herald Sun.

"There are a number of options within Metro's contract for further financial penalties and those options are being explored," spokesman Bill Kyriakopoulos said.

"Metro is fined $1 million for not reaching 88 per cent running on time and these extra penalties do go above that." Opposition transport spokesman Terry Mulder said many late trains were caused by the Government, not Metro.

"You can't point the finger at Metro for what happens when there has been a lack of investment by the Government," Mr Mulder said.

Train services were suffering because of problems with tracks, sleepers, crossings and signals, he said.

Metro communications manager Geraldine Mitchell said the Government was yet to issue an official reprimand.

"It is premature to speculate on likely next steps and Metro has not received notification from the State Government in regards to a call-in notice or breach of the franchise agreement," Ms Mitchell said.

"Metro continues to work to a plan targeting long-term network performance improvement.

"This involves infrastructure maintenance and renewal, timetable changes, customer information and improving the overall travelling experience."