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Community groups join forces to protest the Government's rail sell off
Tuesday 20 October 2009
A broad range of communities and groups joined forces today outside NSW Parliament in a loud, colourful protest against the Government's legislation that gives them the power to sell off rail corridors, such as the Newcastle rail line and the Casino to Murwillumbah line.
Speakers:
· Lee Rhiannon, NSW Greens MP
· Jamie Parker, Mayor of Leichhardt
· Gail Broadbent, Australian Conservation Foundation
· Reps from Combined Pensioners & Superannuants Association
· Rail Tram and Bus Union
· Newcastle Transport for Business Development
· Trains On Our Tracks (TOOT) – Casino to Murwillumbah line
· Save Our Rail – Hunter region
Greens MP Lee Rhiannon said:
"Communities and groups from across NSW are coming together to protest
this legislation, which gives the Government the power to sell off rail
corridors.
"Developed without community consultation, these laws are a gift to
developers and a kick in the teeth for our future rail network.
"The move to sell off rail lines is irresponsible in an age of climate
change and peak oil. The government should be building a bigger rail
network, not shutting lines down.
"Transport Minister David Campbell is becoming known as the minister
for closing rail lines," said Ms Rhiannon.
For more information:
Lee Rhiannon - 9230 3551, 0427 861 568
Karin Kolbe - 0411 594 599 (TOOT organiser on behalf of NSW public
transport groups)
