Tuesday 10 July 2007

Member for Manly Mike Baird has outlined his key priorities in ensuring that Manly retains the ferry service it deserves, following the release of information from the Ferry Inquiry in the lead-up to the public forum.

“It’s clear that Sydney Ferries is getting a complete overhaul in the current Inquiry and I want to ensure that the recommendations deliver an improved service for Manly,” Mr Baird said.

“After speaking with thousands of commuters over the past year it’s obvious they want a service that’s more reliable, more regular and more affordable.

“It’s important that the Commissioner and Minister have a clear summary of what the community is expecting in its ferry service.

“While they will hear first hand at the forum, I have outlined seven principles that will be our minimum expectation when the recommendations are revealed next month.”

• Peak services must not be reduced
• Any new vessels considered must not be inferior to existing ferries and jetcats and must be more environmentally friendly
• Fares should not increase to make up for past mismanagement
• Management must be made more accountable, with contracts tied to performance (including customer service surveys, reliability and patronage growth)
• Senior management must be stable and have a long-term plan
• Maintenance and safety must be made a priority
• More investment in customer service, such as SMS alerts if services are delayed and Wi-Fi technology allowing internet access while travelling

“We go into this process as a community open to the Inquiry’s recommendations but let’s be clear we will not tolerate a downgrading of the service.

“I applaud the Commissioner for coming to Manly to speak with local commuters and I encourage as many people as possible to come to the forum later this month to have their say.”

The public forum will be held at Freshwater Senior Campus on Harbord road at 7pm on Thursday 26 July. For more details, call Mike Baird’s office on 9976 2773.

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