NSW Greens MP and Roads & Transport spokesperson, Dr Mehreen Faruqi MLC, has responded to a story that reveals a confidential cabinet minute stating benefits from a Wollongong-to-Sydney rail upgrade would exceed costs.
Dr. Faruqi said:
“The cover-ups, deception and secrecy surrounding decision making by this Government and its continued efforts to keep public in the dark are not only misguided but also a slight to people in the Illawarra who have been waiting too long for a better, faster rail line.
“The people who benefit – or rather suffer – under this Government’s terrible decision making have a right to know why the Thirroul tunnel is not being considered at all when it will significantly cut travel times.
“The culture of secrecy surrounding transport decisions is massively undercutting transport planning, as it effectively means the public have no say where the taxpayer dollar is spent.
“A benefit cost ratio of more than 2 is an exceptional return for the taxpayers’ dollar, but even this remarkable fact is not enough to sway this Government from its agenda of toll roads. They have completely ignored sensible advice on public transport options, this behaviour is obnoxious.
