Page 4269 - Week 14 - Wednesday, 27 November 2013
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government’s transport strategy. Mr Rattenbury talked about delivering better transport, environment and economic outcomes. Industry reaction has been very good. We have seen significant interest in both light rail itself and the associated industry benefit as a commercial opportunity.
Mr Rattenbury said that there comes a point where government must stand up and make a firm decision on our future for the benefit of all Canberrans. He referred to the history of Portland. The citizens of Portland got tired of their city being bulldozed to create more freeways. Of course, the Canberra Airport is on side. They want to see an extension to light rail so that their clients from other cities can access the transport infrastructure.
The Chief Minister talked about the cost of congestion with vehicles and pollution being $200 million over time. Light rail will ameliorate those costs. Our public transport modal share is four per cent compared to 11 per cent in other cities. We see some challenges that government can either act on or not act on. This government chooses to be proactive and plan for the future.
In regard to salaries, we need to be competitive. We want the best people to take those jobs. This project will be successful because it is the right thing to do. The Chief Minister encourages tripartisian support. That would be most welcome.
Dr Bourke said that capital metro will benefit all Canberrans through the economic uplift, developments and lifestyle improvements it will deliver. He also talked about the projection showing cost savings of $200 million. Across Australia he said both Labor and Liberal governments are supporting light rail programs. It is time we all get on board—a great phrase at this time of this infrastructure project.
Ms Burch talks about Mrs Dunne’s life passion for light rail—over a decade, we understand—and referred to nation-building projects such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge. She wondered whether the Canberra Liberals would have supported such projects. Light rail will attract commercial activities and value uplift. These are Mrs Dunne’s words. She referred to partnerships based on value capture, investor gain and permanent business relocations being available. Ms Burch also referred to Steve Pratt and his words. He said that the government did not have the guts to invest in large infrastructure projects. I think you can see, Madam Deputy Speaker, that we do have the courage.
Of course, Ms Berry stated that capital metro will stimulate our economy. Conversations that she has had with constituents show that younger people are excited to see the project and they see the long-term benefits. It builds confidence but there are concerns with older persons having fears about the future and the costs. She said that there will be jobs in construction and engineering and jobs in maintenance and ticketing. Whilst the federal government is cutting jobs in the ACT it is important for us to encourage jobs growth.
She also said that it is interesting to see how light rail will help us ameliorate congestion. She made reference to the figures mentioned earlier on about the cost involved in that in future. She made reference to the presentations to her select
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