Belinda Vernon National Transport Spokesperson

6 August 2001

Integrity of Infrastructure Auckland wins the day

Today's decision by Infrastructure Auckland to contribute $45 million towards the Britomart transport centre is a welcome step towards improvements to Auckland's transport problems, National's Transport spokesperson Belinda Vernon said today.

"Infrastructure Auckland's condition that the region agrees to transport operations coming under one entity is yet another clarion call for Auckland to come together as one rather than several entities.

"Both the Knowledge Wave and Competitive Auckland have called for a single Auckland and amalgamation of local bodies. Transport could provide the window of opportunity for the first steps to be taken.

"The ball is now in the Government's court to ensure that rail corridor access is secured. The Government must deliver on its commitment to conclude negotiations with Tranz Rail by August 31 otherwise all the good work by Auckland's councils, Tranz Rail, Infrastructure Auckland and Transfund will be wasted.

"Judith Tizard's threats last week to Infrastructure Auckland were way out of line and seriously threatened the independence of the funding body. She owes Infrastructure Auckland an apology because she put them in a very difficult position.

"However I am confident that Infrastructure Auckland has made their decision based on the facts and merits of the case, not due to the bullying tactics of Judith Tizard," Belinda Vernon said.

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