18 Oct 2007: SEQ - Thanks to our Public Transport Staff

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RAIL Back On Track - Media Release 18 October 2007

SEQ:  Thanks to our Public Transport Staff

RAIL - Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community organisation for the promotion of rail throughout Australia has publicly thanked Public Transport Staff for their ongoing commitment to the provision of public transport in South East Queensland, despite ongoing difficulties due to shortages of staff and equipment.

Robert Dow said:

?The public is appreciative of the outstanding efforts being made by our public transport staff to keep the maximum number of buses and trains, ferries and catamarans in service whilst new buses, trains and catamarans are being progressively added to the public transport asset.

?There has been congestion and cancelled services on the trains.  Buses and CityCats are sometimes full.  It is frustrating for all, staff and passengers, and I have observed many times calm empathetic management by transport staff of upset commuters.  Thank you.

?Difficult as it is for some commuters with short notice cancellations and buses and CityCats that are full, we should not directly criticise staff, but direct our well founded complaints to Translink and to our elected representatives.

?RAIL Back On Track calls for staffing levels to be progressively expanded in a realistic manner as new buses and trains are introduced.  Chronic staff shortages mean staff may be constantly working additional shifts, and are not always able to enjoy a healthy life balance; their health, families, hobbies and other community activities may suffer.

?It is in everyone?s best interest to ramp up staff levels and public transport services in a proactive manner now, rather than wait for the inevitable energy and environmental crises and permanent gridlock!?, said Robert Dow.

Contact:

Robert Dow

Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track