RADIO NEW ZEALAND: The Government has promised $36 million over four years to try to double the level of coastal shipping by 2040.
Transport Minister Annette King announced the Government's Sea Change policy on Tuesday to increase the use of ships for freight around New Zealand from 15% to 20% by 2020, and 30% by 2040.
Ms King promised $6 million next year, with a further $10 million each year up until 2012.
Ms King says plans must be made to ease roading pressures, as well as reduce greenhouse gas emissions. She says an integrated transport system for freight will help to create an environment in which businesses can prosper.
The Government will also set a new sea freight development unit to promote coastal shipping and collect more information on the industry.
New Zealand Shipping Federation president Rod Grout says coastal shipping has a big role to play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and decongesting roads.
Mr Grout says it will be up to shipping companies to put criteria together to apply for the funding.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment