Phil Twyford
Auckland Issues Spokesperson

12 September 2011
Government warned Auckland rail wouldn’t cope but failed to act

Transport Minister Steven Joyce was warned Auckland’s public transport system would not cope with Rugby World Cup crowds, but failed to act, says Labour’s Auckland Issues spokesperson Phil Twyford.

“A report written 18 months ago by the former Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA) noted the city was not ready to cope with an influx of RWC visitors.

“It warned of complacency over demand for services during the event, and advised that ‘the levels of patron movement and operational standard [needed for the RWC] are in reality significantly above what is currently delivered’.

“It also revealed there were not enough people able ‘to perform tasks that are either [already] needed, or may be needed.’

“The Minister said at the time he was he was confident the system would be ready. He now needs to explain to Aucklanders why he was so confident.

“Eighteen months on and the Minister’s failure to heed that official advice has left Auckland exposed in front of a global audience,” Phil Twyford said.

“It is simply not good enough for Government ministers to blame the Auckland Council. The Rugby World Cup is a project of national importance that has been micro-managed from the Beehive. Now is the time to show some accountability.

“The fiasco on Friday night should banish any remaining doubts that Auckland is in dire need of a modern public transport system. Len Brown has been banging on about this for the past three years, yet at every turn has been stymied by the National government.

“Steven Joyce’s delaying tactics meant the new electric trains were not in place for the RWC. He is also blocking the building of the City Rail Link which would double the capacity of the rail network.

“It is clear something must be done to turn around decades of under investment in Auckland public transport and particularly the rail system. It is also clear Mr Joyce is all that is standing between Aucklanders and a world class transport system,” Phil Twyford said.

ENDS

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