I welcome the statement made yesterday by the National Minister of Transport, Fikile Mbalula, regarding the impending publication of the White Paper on National Rail Policy.
The Policy has been in development for many years and I am pleased that it is finally being released. I hope it brings much-needed direction and clarity to the rail sector and I will study its contents carefully once the full document is available.
I strongly support the need for the devolution of responsibility for rail to the subnational governments to address the ongoing rail crisis and restore rail to its rightful place as the backbone of transport.
Devolution is in line with international best practices and is key to integrating and improving public transport. Therefore, I am pleased that the need for devolution is acknowledged in the White Paper. My concern is that the proposed development of a Devolution Strategy for Commuter Rail over the next three years will further delay the process.
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