MEDIA RELEASE: FERRY FARES SET TO SKYROCKET UNDER O'FARRELL GOVERNMENT

MEDIA RELEASE: Tuesday, 14 February 2012

FERRY FARES SET TO SKYROCKET UNDER O'FARRELL GOVERNMENT -
PARRAMATTA RIVER CAT FACES THE AXE

The NSW Labor Opposition has today demanded the O'Farrell Government rule out passing on huge fare increases and axing Parramatta River Cat services as part of the privatisation of Sydney Ferries.

"Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian needs to take a stand and rule out huge fare increases and cuts to the Parramatta River Cat services today," Shadow Transport Minister, Penny Sharpe said.

"Two reports presented to IPART have recommended the O'Farrell Government give the go ahead to significant cuts to Parramatta River Cat services and cutting other costs by 24 per cent.

"The O'Farrell Government is also considering increasing fares above and beyond the rate of inflation, like it did with CityRail fares.

"As part of the privatisation of Sydney Ferries, the O'Farrell Government will retain control of routes and prices – so the Transport Minister decides whether these cost cutting measures are implemented.

"The O'Farrell Government cannot jack up Sydney Ferries fares at the expense of commuters to fatten up the utility for privatisation.

"We can hardly expect to encourage people to get off our roads and onto public transport if the O'Farrell Government is sending fares skyrocketing to help the Sydney Ferries private operators make a quick buck.

"In addition, cutting services west of Cabarita – including the popular Parramatta River Cat service – would be disastrous for Western Sydney commuters.

"The O'Farrell Government promised to improve ferries in Sydney. Cutting the Parramatta service and increasing fares is a breach of trust with the commuters of Sydney."