THE QUEENSLAND TRANSPORT INDUSTRY IS SET TO IMPROVE

The Transport Workers' Union in Queensland today welcomed the annoucement of a new Transport Minister.

Queensland premier Anna Bligh has dumped John Mickel from the Transport portfolio and named Member for Ipswich Rachel Nolan the new Transport Minister.

TWU Branch Secretary Hughie Williams said, "The TWU looks forward to working with Ms Nolan an active Member for Ipswich to help improve the State's transport industry."

To date there has been 13 heavy vehicle fatalities on Queensland roads and these fatalities continue to increase each year.

In 2006 there were 52 heavy vehicle fatalities on Queensland roads, 65 in 2007 and 75 in 2008. (Data from the Department of Queensland Transport)

Mr Williams said, "The loss of life in Queensland's transport industry needs to stop."

The TWU has written to Ms Nolan requesting an urgent meeting to discuss the pressing safety concerns in the transport industry.