7 Sep 2008: SEQ: Public transport crisis now joined by the go card crisis!

[ozbob]

Media Release 7 September 2008

SEQ:  Public transport crisis now joined by the go card crisis!

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 go card roll out is a failure.  Many bus passengers are getting free rides (1).  Other go card users are getting hit with incorrect charges due to equipment and system problems and struggle to get refunds (2). The Go card advertising is also misleading to many. If you use your Go card on rail services connecting with the Airtrain the fare is actually approximately 20% higher rather than 20% less than the equivalent paper tickets (3).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

?Brisbanetimes recently reported that an audit of public transport in south-east Queensland is under way and ?Translink was now withholding "milestone" payments from US-based company Cubic because of faults with the go card system (4).?  Will this audit include the go card??

?RAIL Back On Track responds to commuter feedback.  We have supported the go card because the possible gains in terms of improved efficiency and cost savings for our public transport are significant if successfully implemented, but the many ongoing issues are proving counter-productive and a major disincentive for uptake. The fact that the go card fare structure is also inequitable with respect to the present integrated paper ticketing further highlights why the go card is not the ticketing choice for most public transport commuters.?

?The Translink Transit Authority Board has been officially in place since 1st July 2008.  Has there been an appointment of a general manager for the TTA?  Has the Manager Go Card Operations been appointed?  Have the other go card positions been filled??

?Much damage is being done to consumer confidence for the go card.?

?Actions are needed to fix the go card today!?


References:

1.   http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1299.0 

2.   http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1303.0

3.   http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1306.0

4.  http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/news/queensland/commuters-score-free-bus-trips/2008/09/05/1220121492467.html


Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org