General news
STAFF NEWS:
We would like to congratulate Miss Ellen Dorrough on her recent engagement. We wish Ellen a life time of happiness. We also want to congratulate Mrs Kate-Sarah McGlaughlan on her special baby news, due in January.
BUS ISSUES:
We understand there have been some interruptions to the bus services since a new company has taken over. Mary-Anne Stewart , our local member, has been in communication regarding this issue . After speaking to the students who rely on the buses the issues are widespread. I have included correspondence from Maryanne Stuart (MP) to assist our community.
Good afternoon,
I am writing to update you regarding bus services in the Sutherland Shire following our correspondence last week. Thank you to all the schools that have kept my office across the failures of service that have occurred in recent weeks. These are unacceptable and I remain disgusted at the level of service.
As stated in the letter last week, temporary changes will now be in place with school services and services running near schools prioritised.
The Transport Minister has now deployed a Transport for NSW team to work directly with U-Go to oversee scheduling. Marshals have also been deployed to the Sutherland bus interchange at morning and afternoon peaks. While the marshals will not solve the service problems, they will be available to help students with queries and updates whilst we work through all the issues. Additional staff and customer communications have been put in place. Physical posters and signs have been put up advising passengers of the changes and these have been reflected in all digital communication.
U-Go Mobility has established a dedicated line and email for customers to be available during operating hours of the bus services. There will be staff answering the phone during business hours and callers will be directed to the Transport Infoline (131 500) after hours. U-Go also has a coordinator working directly with schools and community stakeholders to ensure they communicate on delays or disruptions.
Therefore, please call TfNSW if you have any issues with school buses and email me if your complaint is not resolved promptly.
Our government takes this issue very seriously – ensuring our children travel to and from school safely, is our responsibility.
Warm regards
Maryanne Stuart MP
Member for Heathcote