Engineers’ Report Confirms Rail Track Fears

Fears that safety standards will be severely compromised if the State’s freight rail tracks are handing over to the Howard Government have vindicated a union campaign against the proposal.

Combined Rail Unions toured the State last week, highlighting concerns with the Howard Government's plan to take over the rail track from NSW, warning on the impact on safety and rural jobs.

Today, the Australian Financial Review reported that engineering group Maunsell Australia had warned the NSW Government the plan would result in a net deterioration to safety.

Labor Council of NSW deputy assistant secretary Michael Gadiel said today:

"The experts have confirmed what rail workers already know: the ARTC proposal is bad for the community.

"We have been arguing the ARTC proposal fails basic public interest tests on both economic and safety grounds.

"In the wake of this latest report Rail Unions again call on Premier Carr to reject the Howard Government's overtures and ensure the long-term viability of the state's Rail Towns."

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