22 March 2011

Contractors’ Federation Welcomes “Pragmatic” Harbour Crossing Decision

The Government’s decision to release an evaluation of options for an additional Waitemata Harbour Crossing is both “pragmatic and sensible” says the New Zealand Contractors’ Federation.

Federation Chief Executive Jeremy Sole said the move demonstrates the Government’s commitment to taking forward planning seriously.

“This contributes to the ability of the industry to look forward and plan for future scenarios,” said Mr Sole.

“It will also help to give contracting firms confidence in developing skill levels among their staff and help avoid the patterns of boom bust and pricing fluctuations we have seen too often in the past.”

Announcing the decision to release the evaluation of options, Minister of Transport Steven Joyce said the current and future Auckland Harbour Crossings are essential transport infrastructure, providing a vital link between north and south, both physically and economically.

“The Government is clearly serious about achieving economic growth,” said Mr Sole. “This is also evident from recent announcements confirming it will continue with major growth focused initiatives and source other funding to ensure the Canterbury rebuild goes forward.

“Today’s announcement is also clearly and deliberately focused on lifting New Zealand’s economic performance. That is how we will pay for the services our communities need and the people of New Zealand will benefit from these decisions for many years to come.”

ENDS

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