Hon Darren Hughes
Transport Spokesperson

May 13 2010 Media Statement

Key’s “can’t do” Kiwi attitude

The directive given to KiwiRail to look for an offshore supplier to build the rolling stock required for Auckland’s rail network proves John Key is running a Government with a “can’t do” attitude, Labour’s Transport spokesperson Darren Hughes said today.

“KiwiRail’s decision that it will not bid for the $500 million contract is a kick in the guts for the hundreds of Kiwi workers in the rail manufacturing industry and for those who fought to keep the work here in New Zealand,” Darren Hughes said.

“The recent investigation by economic consultants BERL built a strong economic and business case for Kiwi workers to be at the centre of manufacturing the rolling stock.

“However John Key and his right hand man Transport Minister Steven Joyce seem to be locked into a ‘can’t do’ attitude.”

Darren Hughes said there is still plenty of scope for the economy and Kiwi rail workers to benefit from manufacturing of the electric locomotives.

“While the Government seems to be opposed to building the rolling stock from scratch here in New Zealand there are still opportunities for Kiwi workers to contribute,” Darren Hughes said.

“Unlike our Government, Kiwi rail workers have a ‘can do’ attitude. They showed that by initiating the research done by BERL and prove it every day at the Woburn and Hillside workshops with their expertise.

“KiwiRail should be allowed to bid for as much manufacturing and maintenance work for the rolling stock as possible.

“Half a billion dollars is going to be spent on this rolling stock. More must be done by the Government to ensure as much of it as possible stays in New Zealand and supports Kiwi jobs,” Darren Hughes said.

ENDS

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