Put money into rail and roads

I refer to Jayne Mote's letter (Peninsula News) relating to the Fast Ferry, and suggesting the ferry service should be guaranteed by the Federal and State governments.

May I suggest that the reason why financial institutions have not provided financial support for this venture, after some 11 years, is because they do not see it as financially viable.

As the expert report supporting the draft Peninsula Urban Directions Strategy stated, "the proposed Fast Ferry from Ettalong remains a concept ... it is unlikely to provide a strategically-significant commuter service ... The proposed ferry has a limited capacity equivalent to less than one train and services would be interrupted several times a year due to heavy seas".

The report does not go on to consider the likely higher ferry fare costs required when compared with rail transport.

There is no good reason for taxpayers to support unviable ventures: any funding available from governments should go to providing better rail and road services for Peninsula residents.

Michael Gillian Ettalong Beach