24 November 2010
Media Statement

Get behind rail or get off the tracks says Labour

Auckland’s central city rail link is a no-brainer and the Government should back Mayor Len Brown to get it built as soon as possible, says Labour’s Auckland Issues spokesperson Phil Twyford.

“The Prime Minister said at Len Brown’s mayoral inauguration that he was waiting to see the business case for the central city rail link. Now the business case is out and says the rail link would be transformative for Auckland and the country. It would unlock the capacity of the existing rail network, and boost growth in economic competitiveness and productivity.

"The Government set up the super city and passed a law requiring the Mayor to articulate a vision for Auckland. Len Brown campaigned on his vision for rail and won a thumping mandate for it.

"It is time the Government got with the plan, instead of trying to undermine it.

“Mr Key and Transport Minister Steven Joyce have been pouring cold water on Auckland’s desire for a modern regional rail network. At the same time Mr Joyce has been pressing ahead with his pet project the Puhoi-Wellsford Holiday Highway,” said Phil Twyford.

ENDS

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