TOOT News

Iemma's comments encourage hope for train funding from Federal Government.

Recent comments by the NSW Premier, Morris Iemma, that he is prepared to consider joint Federal funding proposals to restore trains services on the Casino-Murwillumbah line (ABC North Coast Radio, 11 Feb. 2008) have encouraged TOOT campaigners that the end to the blame game may be in sight.

TOOT spokesperson, Karin Kolbe says; 'TOOT has written to the Premier and NSW Transport Minister, John Watkins, to encourage the NSW government to take a leadership role by opening discussions with the Federal government'.

'A convenient starting point would be Federal Labor's $150 million agreement to fund a complete restoration of the line just prior to the 2004 Federal election'.

'TOOT has recently provided a submission to the Treasurer for funding in the 2008 Budget'.

'We have also written to the Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, Federal Transport Minister Anthony Albanese, Page MP Janelle Saffin and Richmond MP Justine Elliot asking that they act on their commitments to overcome the blame game'.

Basil Cameron, 6684 9107

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