Go Bus Backs Inquiry Into Tender Process

5 December 2008

Media Release

Go Bus Backs Inquiry Into Tender Process

Go Bus is backing the call by new Education Minister Anne Tolley for an Auditor-General inquiry into the School Bus Tender process.

Go Bus Managing Director Calum Haslop says the misinformation given to local communities in some areas by the incumbent operator has been unnecessarily damaging to community confidence.

"I believe some have tried to sow confusion and worry in their own community by attacking the Ministry's tender process. I can understand someone wanting to protect their business, but doing so by spreading misinformation to create a climate of fear amongst their own customers, staff and community seems unkind to say the least.

"Attempts to undermine the improved service we will bring by attacking the tendering process is a red herring that will be dealt with definitively by the Auditor-General inquiry. We are rock-solid about the quality of our tender, and welcome close scrutiny by an independent," Mr Haslop says.

The inquiry will not affect the contracts as they have been let and are legally binding. The Auditor-General inquiry is into technical aspects of the tender process, to determine whether improvements could be made in the future.

"The facts are that from February 2009, school children under Go Bus care will enjoy newer, higher-quality buses that are more efficient, comfortable and with the latest safety ratings compared with those currently on the routes. At the same time, the routes will be run by local people who know the area and the people they are serving. It's all positive for the children and their families," Mr Haslop says.

"It's business as usual for us," Mr Haslop says. "Our focus remains on completing the set-up phase over the next few weeks and getting buses on the routes from February 2009."

ENDS

© Scoop Media