Media release 17 Jan

Reducing congestion - politicians must practice what they preach

Community Action for Sustainable Transport (CAST) calls on all politicians who are serious about reducing traffic congestion in Brisbane to start practicing what they preach.

“Politicians who are serious about reducing congestion should not be driving to work during peak hours,” said Tristan Peach, the group’s spokesperson.

“Any politician who drives to work during peak hours is contributing to the problem that they claim to be interested in solving,” said Mr. Peach.

CAST is issuing a simple challenge to Lord Mayor Campbell Newman, Deputy Mayor David Hinchliffe and the transport chairs Cr Graham Quirk and Cr Victoria Newton. To show they are serious about reducing congestion, how about walking, cycling or catching public transport to work for two weeks?

If the politicians claim that it is impractical for them to do so, then it’s clear that they have no faith in the transport system that they claim credit for creating.

CAST calls on Council to increase funding for public transport, walking and cycling in its 2007/2008 budget to encourage all residents to use these modes of transport.

Media Contact: Tristan Peach 0416478615