17 Jun 2012

Ministry critical of transport spending

7:03 am on 17 June 2012

The Ministry of Health does not think public transport, walking and cycling are receiving enough funding.

Documents obtained by the Green Party under the Official Information Act shows the ministry voiced its concern last year when a Government policy statement on land transport funding was developed.

It was concerned the objective of protecting and promoting public health received little attention.

The ministry also said expenditure does not provide appropriate funding for public transport or walking and cycling.

Public transport services will receive $830 million in the next three years.

The Green Party says the $36 - $90 million set aside for walking and cycling in the same period is woefully inadequate.