News release July 17, 2001

Cullen signs MoU on Auckland rail network purchase

Chair of the Auckland Regional Mayoral Forum, Chris Fletcher is delighted by Finance Minister Dr Michael Cullen’s signing today of a MoU (memorandum of understanding) for the purchase of the region’s rail network.

The memorandum details the partnership agreement between Auckland’s councils and the Crown to negotiate purchase of the Auckland rail network with Tranz Rail.

Mrs Fletcher, who was present in Dr Cullen’s office today for the signing, says she was reassured by the Minister of Finance’s indication that every effort would be made by the Government and Tranz Rail’s negotiators, to meet an August 31 deadline for completing negotiations on the purchase of the assets from Tranz Rail.

The agreement sets the Crown as lead negotiator with full support from the councils.

Mrs Fletcher says the signing of the MoU demonstrates the Crown is working with the Auckland councils to meet the transport needs of the Auckland region.

“We look forward to the Crown making tangible progress under the terms of the MoU very soon. I am encouraged by the Government’s resolve to keep these strategic, regional transport plans on track,” she said.

ENDS

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