MEDIA RELEASE: LABOR OPPOSITION LAUNCHES PETITION TO SAVE STATIONS

Thursday, 9 February 2012
21 HUNTER TRAIN STATIONS FACE LOSING STAFF

GOVERNMENT COST CUTTING REVIEW OF RAILCORP WILL LEAD TO UNSAFE STATIONS

LABOR OPPOSITION LAUNCHES PETITION TO SAVE STATIONS

The NSW Labor Opposition today launched a petition demanding the O'Farrell Government retain staff at 21 Hunter train stations facing staffing cuts – after it was revealed three of the stations in the firing line are ranked amongst the worst for crime across the State. 

"The O'Farrell Government's cost cutting review of RailCorp is threatening to remove staff from stations already struggling to deal with rising crime," Shadow Transport Minister, Penny Sharpe said today.

"Last year, the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research found that on a typical weekday, Waratah Station had the highest rate of recorded crime on our rail network.

"The same report found that three other Hunter stations - Warnervale, Beresfield and Fassifern - are among the top five stations for criminal incidents in the State.

"Waratah, Beresfield and Fassifern are among the 21 stations facing the prospect of losing their staff under the O'Farrell Government's cost cutting review of RailCorp.

"This is just not good enough – the O'Farrell Government should be directing resources to these stations, not stripping staff – the best deterrent against crime – away."

Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery and Member for Cessnock, Clayton Barr called on the Liberal Hunter MPs to stick up for local commuters and fight any staff cuts.

"Removing permanent staff from Hunter train stations will only make crime worse," Ms Hornery said.

"The evidence is there – we know our local train stations are ranked among the worst for crime in NSW. We need these station staff to provide extra security at our stations."

Member for Cessnock, Clayton Barr said: "The Liberal MPs for the Hunter cannot just stand by while the O'Farrell Government wields the wrecking ball through our local rail network."

"Everyone knows station staff act as a deterrent for crime and vandalism and assist the disabled and elderly to use our trains."

Download the petition