Forum Archive Index - September 2002

[Marilyn Munroe <who.c@res.co.nz>]

The future of Trans Rail is looking grim.

During the Air N Z death spiral I advocated a hands off approach from the 
government. I argued that there were no vital interests involved which meant 
that the government need to throw money at the problem.

The Honorable Michael ignored advice this and chucked large amounts of our 
dosh at the problem without a viable exit strategy, unless of course he 
sells out to QANTAS and gives them a license to rip off the traveling 
public.  Indeed from his public statements he seems pleased as punch that the 
taxpayer is locked into an industry which has been an investors graveyard.

Trans Rail I argue is different, because of the consequences which arise if 
the rail transport system ceases to operate. I am talking about the volume of 
freight which would be forced onto the public roads. Fighting all the extra 
trucks on the Auckland motor way system would add to the length and hazards 
of motoring Other factors are the extra wear and tear on the roading system, 
and the inability of bulk low value export commodities such as coal to afford 
transport by road.

The Honorable's Helen and Michael have previous experience is rescuing a 
defunct former state owned asset (liability really). One hopes that they 
will get better with practice.

No doubt their ear is being bent by leasors, union officials, fund managers 
who have committed the savings of widows and orphans, and shippers who use 
rail. They should turn a deaf ear to their special pleading and consider how 
the public interest can be served for the least cost.

The Honorables should not use taxpayers money like with Air N Z to bail out 
others from their mistakes. Anyway the money is  desperately needed for new 
signaling systems, locomotive rebuilds, and new bridges. 

The taxpayer has had a bit of a holiday while mug punters have tried to run 
the railroad, not for much longer I fear.

Boop-boop-de-do  Marilyn


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