When private profit is put ahead of public assets

Private ownership no answer to public transport needs
Monday, 18 December 2006

The Iemma government is courting disaster by relying on private companies to build important public infrastructure like the new high speed rail link to the Western Suburbs, according to John Kaye, Greens candidate for the NSW Upper House.

Dr Kaye said: "Public-private partnerships, such as the Cross City tunnel and the airport rail link, have been a dismal failure in the past.

"The crumbling rail system needs an urgent injection of new capital to increase reliability and capacity. Western Sydney particularly deserves good public transport.

"However, Public Private Partnerships have a shocking track record where they have failed to deliver essential services.

"When private profit is put ahead of public assets, the community loses out."

"The Greens argue that keeping such essential services in public hands means the projects will work for the entire community, not just the board room of Macquarie Bank.

"Public ownership ensures that the rail will be designed and priced so that all people get access to transport, not just those who can afford them.

"Investment in public transport is the only way to break our dependence on private cars. This is a core government responsibility.

"We cannot rely on the corporate profit motive to deliver affordable and reliable transport," Dr Kaye said.