National shows lack of commitment to rail and jobs, again
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The National Government’s lack of commitment to investing in rail and jobs in the Kiwi rail industry were highlighted in Parliament again today, Labour’s transport spokesperson Darren Hughes said.
“When asked in Parliament to ensure that the Auckland electrified train units will be built in New Zealand, Transport Minister Steven Joyce would not give any guarantees,” Darren Hughes said.
“At a time of when unemployment is at a sixteen year high with 168,000 Kiwis out of work, National is refusing to take decisions that support jobs in our economy.
“The last Labour Government highlighted the ability of Woburn (Hutt Valley) and Hillside (Dunedin) to build or assemble rail units as a critical part of our economic stimulus plan if we were re-elected.
“It seems National is not prepared to make a similar assurance to the local industry to support jobs and stimulate the local economies.”
Darren Hughes said that the Prime Minister’s much hyped Jobs Summit highlighted government procurement as an area that should be pursued.
“But it turns out it was just a talkfest as Phil Goff said it would be and John Key promised it wouldn’t be.
“John Key has shown little commitment to jobs and Steven Joyce has shown little commitment to rail.
“The decision on Auckland rail comes after 15 months delay. Labour had already started the procurement process and National's delay has simply wasted Auckland's time and cost taxpayers more money.”
