By BEN CAMERON
IN HIS maiden speech to the Victorian Parliament Bass MP Brian Paynter said the State Government must add two Pakenham level crossings to its list of 50 to be removed.
A pledge to remove 50 of the most dangerous crossings was a key part of the Labor Party’s Project 10,000 but the only Cardinia Shire crossing to make the list was Clyde Road, Berwick.
In his December address, Mr Paynter challenged the new government to deliver key projects in the shire, including upgrades to Pakenham and Kooweerup secondary colleges, and to add two Pakenham line crossings to the list.
“I urge the State Government to increase their promise to remove railway crossings from 50 to 52,” he said, “by adding both Main Street and McGregor Road in Pakenham to the list.”
He also called for further works to be carried out.
“Building the Lang Lang jetty, so that families and their children can throw a line into Westernport Bay” and “completing the upgrades to both Pakenham and Kooweerup secondary colleges.”
Mr Paynter also touched on issues close to his heart, including violence against women, youth suicide and how ice addiction can destroy families.
“Many have been torn apart while trying to provide support,” he said.
“I have seen this first-hand.”
However, Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan said the government would remove 14 crossings from the Pakenham-Cranbourne line “making it quicker and safer to get to and from Pakenham”.
“Our policy on level crossings is clear and always has been.
“By contrast, Liberal policy is confused and is being made up by local members on the spot,” she said.
“If Mr Paynter wants those level crossings removed, he should start by convincing his own colleagues, who ignored this critical issue while in government.“
A government spokesperson said grants were available to improve boating and fishing infrastructure.
“Groups and organisations are encouraged to apply for these funding opportunities,“ they said.
