State Member for Wallsend, Ms Sonia Hornery MP, yesterday used Question Time to ask the Minister for Transport why the Newcastle public transport system has gone backwards.
Ms Hornery asked the Minister to confirm why the recently privatised transport network was not “world class” as he had promised.
In his response to the Question Without Notice, the Minister indicated that he had met with the operator, Keolis Downer, and they would be making some changes to improve services.
Quotes attributable to Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery
“The response from the Minister, while not overly encouraging, is hopefully a positive step toward having a world class public transport network in the Hunter.”
“Since Keolis Downer took over the contract on 1 July this year, more than 300 services have been cancelled in the Wallsend electorate.”
“Students missed classes at University and people were late for work after being left stranded on the side of the road.”
“Pay and rostering issues are still widespread but the Minister has assured me that these issues are close to being fixed permanently.”
“I am glad that as a result of public pressure the Minister has finally intervened in this matter. But we must remain vigilant and I will continue to monitor the situation.”
“A reliable public transport network is vital for so many people in the western suburbs and it is the responsibility of the Government to ensure this is delivered.”
You can read the response from the Minister here: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/Hansard/Pages/HansardResult.aspx#/docid/HANSARD-1323879322-99281/link/33