State Government moves quickly on transport security funding

State Government moves quickly on transport security funding

06/08/2009

The Liberal-National Government has moved quickly to provide funding for an increased level of security on Perth’s public transport.

Transport Minister Simon O’Brien said today that he has approved a range of recommendations agreed to on Wednesday at a meeting between the Public Transport Authority (PTA), driver’s representatives, bus companies and police.

“I have approved a package of measures to immediately enhance security on our metropolitan bus network,” Mr O’Brien said.

“The number of bus security personnel will be increased by nearly 50 per cent, which translates into a 120 per cent increase in mobile security patrols.

“The PTA’s own transit officers, which are responsible for security on our trains, will be increasing patrols at interchanges where bus and train stations are co-located.

“I have approved the installation of an additional 295 security screens for bus drivers, on top of the existing 495 buses that already have security screens.

“When it is completed, this program will mean that all bus drivers working after 6pm will have the extra security of a protected cab.

“I have also approved the installation of duress alarms on an additional 736 buses across the network, which means duress alarms will exist on all buses.”

The beefed-up security will require an immediate one-off investment of $1.65million and an ongoing yearly cost of $2.2million for the extra mobile security patrols.

“Following my recent meetings with bus drivers, I am very pleased to announce these enhanced safety measures on behalf of the State Government,” the Minister said.

“Protecting public transport workers and their passengers is a priority for this Government and we will not shirk our responsibility to them.”