Tasmanians have finally received confirmation that the Liberal Government has no intention of investing in rail transport after a stunning admission by Michael Ferguson today.
Shadow Transport Minister Josh Willie said Mr Ferguson - in responding to a question about the lack of a rail line on the proposed new Bridgewater Bridge – had today told State Parliament Tasmania had no use for rail infrastructure, writing off the desperately needed and long-delayed Hobart northern passenger rail corridor.
"Once again Michael Ferguson has raised the white flag on the solution to Hobart's traffic crisis by saying Tasmania has no need or use for rail infrastructure," Mr Willie said.
"This is a startling admission by the failed former Health Minister who now seems determined to keep Tasmanians stuck in traffic."
Labor Member for Clark Ella Haddad said it had now been more than three years since the Liberals promised the northern rail corridor would be open for business within five years but Mr Ferguson - in trademark fashion - has simply given up.
"All we have seen is report after report - none of which have lead anywhere - and $25 million given to the Gutwein Government by their federal Liberal colleagues is still nothing more than an un-cashed cheque," Ms Haddad said.
"This is a government that is not interested in viable public transport options and a Minister who is incapable of delivering crucially needed infrastructure.
"The project is a game changer for the northern suburbs but Mr Ferguson is not interested in changing the game and instead will leave motorists hopelessly frustrated in a traffic mess."
Josh Willie MLC
Shadow Transport Minister
Ella Haddad MP
Labor Member for Clark
