Shadow Treasurer Michael O’Brien remains adamant East-West Link will be built
Shadow Treasurer Michael O’Brien says it’s a “disappointing day” for Victoria. Photo: Eddie Jim
Daniel Andrews is only delaying the inevitable by abandoning East-West Link, according to the state opposition.
Shadow Treasurer Michael O’Brien slammed the Victorian Government’s decision to ‘tear up’ the contracts for the controversial road.
Premier Andrews announced on Wednesday $339 million would be paid to the East-West Link consortium.
“This is a very disappointing day for Victoria,” Mr O’Brien said on 3AW Drive.
“Before the election, Mr Andrews said the contract wasn’t valid – we know that’s not true.
“He said it wouldn’t cost a dollar to get out of – we know that’s not true.
“We’re seeing $420 million in payments to the consortium, $400-500 million in state sunk costs that are thrown away, 3700 jobs destroyed and Victorians still stuck in traffic with no solution in sight.
“This is a terrible example of politics triumphing over the community interest.”
Mr Andrews remains adamant the road won’t be built but Mr O’Brien doesn’t agree.
“Everyone knows, one day this will happen,” he said.
“One day this will happen.
“But the longer you leave it, the more it’s going to cost and the longer we’re going to be stuck in traffic in the meantime.”
Fellow Coalition MP’s Alan Tudge and Sarah Henderson also took a swipe at the decision on 3AW.
“This is going to damage our international reputation,” Mr Tudge, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, said.
