1 May 2009: SEQ - Call for a public transport compensation scheme ...

[ozbob]

Media Release 1 May 2009

SEQ:  Call for a public transport compensation scheme for poor service outcomes by TransLink and its Operators

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 again called for a compensation scheme (1,2) when buses, ferries or trains are cancelled or delayed for more than 15 minutes. Melbourne (3) and London (4) have such schemes, why not south-east Queensland?

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The non appearance of timetabled buses and timetabled rail services in south-east Queensland is a major issue for many public transport commuters.  During peak times many of the buses, ferries and trains are so overloaded that passengers cannot board, this is the same effect for those unable to board as a cancellation.  Often a cancelled service leads to much additional expense for some commuters. For example, a cancelled or late service can lead to excess child care charges as the normal time for pick up of children from the centre is exceeded. Arrival late at work can mean loss of income. Others miss long standing appointments."

"Some commuters have even lost their jobs as a result of chronic late running and cancellations."

"For some, delayed or cancelled services means that connecting services are missed.  There is a lack of pro-active integration when there are delays.  This in turn means long waits, missed appointments or costly taxi fares. Is this ongoing shambles acceptable?"

"Commuters who suffer these delays should be entitled to apply for reimbursement of at least their fares. This is only reasonable."

"It is time that the go card ticketing fare impasse was moved on with, public transport properly resourced and some innovation put in place with respect to integration between the various public transport modes."

"The Go Card is a tool that can be used to assist with the  management of congestion,  add off peak and incentive fares!  Time to GO!" (5)

References:

1.   http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1433.0
2.   http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=213.0
3.   http://www.connexmelbourne.com.au/index.php?id=75
4.   http://www.tfl.gov.uk/assets/downloads/fares-and-tickets-supplementary-info-08-01-02.pdf
5.   http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=1941.0

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org