Statement from Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey

The Palaszczuk Government deeply regrets the errors made during the procurement process in 2012-14 which resulted in the purchase of non-compliant trains.

Today’s decision does not prohibit NGR trains from operating in passenger service, but does allow for complaints to be made on this issue.

Queenslanders and visitors can be assured that the Commonwealth Games transport plan, including the 24/7 rail timetable on the Gold Coast line, will operate as planned.

The Palaszczuk Government is fixing the trains.

We are committed to working with the disability sector to fix the trains as soon as possible.

Since the $4.4 billion decision by the previous LNP Government, we have taken active measures to ensure their mistakes are never repeated.

These measures will include;

• A requirement for all procurement contracts to include an explicit obligation to comply with the Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992.
• The appointment of disability advocates to the industry advisory groups under the Government’s Buy Queensland Procurement Policy
• The creation of  new Accessible Transport Networks team within the Department of Transport and Main Roads

ENDS

Media contact: Brock Taylor, 0427018178