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Condemnation for Kiwirail's diesel decision

Author
Newstalk ZB Staff ,
Publish Date
Wed, 21 Dec 2016, 1:23PM
The state-owned enterprise has confirmed plans to replace 30-year-old electric trains, with diesel trains (NZ Herald)

Condemnation for Kiwirail's diesel decision

Author
Newstalk ZB Staff ,
Publish Date
Wed, 21 Dec 2016, 1:23PM

The rail workers union is condemning KiwiRail's decision to replace electric trains with diesel ones.

LISTEN ABOVE: KiwiRail CEO Peter Reidy spoke with Larry Williams

The state-owned enterprise has confirmed plans to replace 30-year-old electric trains, with diesel trains.

The electric trains that run between Hamilton and Palmerston North will disappear over the next two years.

Rail and Maritime Transport Union spokesman Wayne Butson said KiwiRail is cutting corners by returning to outdated, dirty diesel locomotives.

He said their members prefer the electric fleet, because they're quieter, more powerful and the best for New Zealand's clean green environment.

Labour and the Greens are also steaming at KiwiRail's plans.

Green MP Julie Anne Genter is calling the decision a massive step backwards.

She said it shows a lack of commitment to taking climate change and transport issues seriously.

"We've got to invest in an electric transport infrastructure that's going to be efficient, protect the climate and clean up the air."

Labour MP Sue Moroney is equally as scathing.

"What we've got now is that Bill English has turned the 'think big' project into 'think backwards'."

Genter indicates the decision can be reversed.

"The electric locomotive will be phased out over two years, so it would be possible for a future government to reverse this decision."

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