An 鈥淎ct of God鈥, or lightning, was a key reason for the recent meltdown of Sydney鈥檚 rail network, according to transport minister Andrew Constance. He also claimed that the 鈥渄ark arts of unionism鈥 鈥 presumably some sort of devilry 鈥 inspired rail unionists to vote to strike over pay and rosters on January 29.
Politicians may blame God and the Devil for recent transport chaos, but when the dots are joined between different aspects of the government鈥檚 transport policy the reality becomes clearer.
One hundred years ago this month, workers, peasants and soldiers in Russia overthrew the corrupt government that had led the country into a disastrous war and established the Soviet Socialist Republic.聽
It seemed that, for once, the people had won. Socialism had gone from theoretical possibility to practical reality.
The V8 supercars race due to run through Newcastle streets in November places 鈥減rivate profit over the common good and social justice鈥 according to the Newcastle East Residents Group (NERG).
In a recent leaflet NERG points out that residents continue to be sidelined by Newcastle City Council, Destinations NSW (a government tourism body) and Supercars Australia Pty Ltd.
The race deal was worked out in a private briefing and closed council meetings without community involvement last year.
The V8 Supercars race through Newcastle East will leave behind a trail of destruction even before the checkered flag goes down next November.
Former Liberal leader Mike Baird and Labor Party mayor Nuatali Helms announced that the race would be held in Newcastle late last year following not very transparent negotiations.
The apparent secrecy has continued and residents are still asking how they are supposed to live with high speed racing just outside their front doors.
More than 300 people demanded answers to these questions at a rally on March 5.