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Action for Public Transport (N.S.W.) Inc.

NCOSS Supports Calls for NSW Transport Summit

posted Tuesday 17 February 2004
NCOSS MEDIA RELEASE - 16 February 2004

The Council of Social Service of NSW (NCOSS) has supported calls for the NSW Government to convene an urgent summit to deal with the state's public transport needs. NCOSS is a member of the NSW Transport Alliance, and supports the need for a summit that will address investment, planning, environmental and equity issues for transport in NSW.

"The delays faced by rail users in the last week are indicative of a public transport that has been stretched to the limit by poor long term planning and a chronic lack of investment" said NCOSS Director, Gary Moore.

"Planning and investment in public transportation systems is one of the basic components of good social policy. A strong, accessible public transport system helps to link communities, reduce social isolation, promote positive health outcomes and build cleaner living environments."

"Sadly, the NSW Government has neglected its commitments to public transport, favouring short sighted investment in infrastructure that supports private vehicle usage and reduces the incentives to use public transport."

"These problems are only exacerbated in areas that experience severe transport disadvantage, such as rural and regional NSW, which are poorly serviced by public passenger services."

"Stakeholders from across NSW must be provided an opportunity to comment on the future make-up of transport in this state. The NSW Government has previously used a summit model as a way to successfully bring a range of stakeholders together to discuss issues and provide meaningful solutions"

"NCOSS believes that a Transport Summit would be a good opportunity for people in the community, experts and Government to think collaboratively about the future for transport in NSW."

"It is clear that the NSW Government needs a transport vision that will generate sustained, coordinated investment and planning in line with the expectations of the people of NSW."



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