Media Release
1 April 2004

Under-Expenditure Is Compromising Road Safety

“The announcement that Transfund is expected to carry forward a surplus of $250 million will result in less safe roads and possibly increased crashes, fatalities and injuries to road users as a result”, said George Fairbairn, Director – Public Affairs, New Zealand Automobile Association.

At a time when every emphasis should be on achieving a safer environment and encouraging economic development throughout the country, a safe and efficient roading network is essential.

The changes made with the passing of the Land Transport Management Act requiring even further reviews and planning procedures, and the continuing interference by minority influences is a retrograde step.

“Safety must not be compromised when there is funding available that can be spent now”, said George Fairbairn. These funds must not be left sitting in a balance sheet to be carried forward for possibly another year before there is any progress.

ENDS

The New Zealand Automobile Association is an incorporated society with over one million members. It represents the interests of road users who collectively pay almost $2 billion in taxes each year through fuels excise, road user charges and GST.