Vic: Government pledges not to rescue public transport operators

AAP General News (Australia)
12-12-2001
Vic: Government pledges not to rescue public transport operators

Public transport users could lose out following the Victorian government's pledge it
won't help public transport operators even in financial crisis.

Already hit by a crackdown on fare evaders, ongoing ticket machine problems and a rise
in fares from next year, the public transport union has warned services could go back
to basics unless operators improve their finances.

Premier STEVE BRACKS yesterday ruled out additional government subsidies for cash-strapped
operators in financial trouble.

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union has sought urgent talks with the government over possible
job cuts by operator Connex and will hold stopwork meetings on Thursday and Friday.

Connex has denied plans to sack almost 100 workers but has confirmed staff cuts or
a wage freeze are being considered in a bid to improve operating results.





The government confirmed yesterday fares would rise by two per cent in line with the
CPI from January 1, taking the cost of a daily Zone One ticket from $5 to $5.10.

AAP RTV ac/klw/jh

KEYWORD: TRAINS (MELBOURNE)

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