14 September 2004
Saving Rail at Last?
The draft rail strategy, released today, marks a turning point in Government policy, says Council of Trade Unions
president Ross Wilson.
“The purchase of the national rail network, the prospect of more investment in capacity, and the recognition of the
vital role for rail in economic and regional development represent a new direction in Government policy,” Ross Wilson
said.
It was a welcome change from the National government which sold off rail assets to overseas owners, who then stripped
out profits and failed to invest in the rail network.
The draft strategy provided a basis for unions to analyse not only the economic development aspects of rail investment,
but also the safety of the network for workers and the public and improvements in access to public transport, Ross
Wilson said.
ENDS