27 Nov 2010: Queensland: Shadow Minister for Public Transport portfolio welcome

[ozbob]

Media release 27 November 2010

Queensland: Shadow Minister for Public Transport portfolio welcome

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 said the introduction of a Shadow Minister for Public Transport is a welcome development (1).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"RAIL Back On Track has long suggested that a dedicated portfolio for public transport is the way forward. Other states do this and reflects the absolute importance of public transport as we move forward into a sustainable future."

"Observers of the 2010 Victoria State Election campaign would have noted that public transport is the key issue (2).  We expect this to be the situation moving into the 2012 Queensland State Election."

"The major issues for public transport in Queensland are accessibility (the public transport must be there to use) and frequency.  The present out of peak frequency on the south-east Queensland City train network is at worlds worst practise (3).  The draft 2011 timetables have flagged a long overdue increase in out of peak frequency between Darra and the CBD to a utilitarian 15 minutes.  This frequency needs to be expanded rapidly to rest of the network."

"Further enhancements to the go card fare structure are also needed urgently.  Constant feedback on the punishing fare structure and price increases is a major constant.  Journey capping should be immediately extended to all concession go card holders to include university students and children. A fare daily cap algorithm and periodical options are also needed as options for all users."

References:

1. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=4928.0

2. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=4626.0

3. http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=4169.0

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Discussion thread --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=4928.0