Question NW3018 to the Minister of Public Enterprises
27 October 2023 - NW3018
Cachalia, Mr G K to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
Whether, with regard to the concerns expressed by the African Rail Industry Association over the announcement by Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) of the appointment of an infrastructure manager as part of TFR, he has found that the appointment of an infrastructure manager employed by Transnet is a contravention of the National Rail Policy, which stipulates that infrastructure managers must be independent and perform work outside Transnet (details furnished); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so; what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The white paper specifically calls for the separation of the infrastructure manager to be outside of Transnet Freight Rail to ensure that equal treatment and access are provided to all operators. The objective of the rail reform white paper is to ensure that the infrastructure manager has no bias towards TFR operations. Transnet is in the process of setting up an Infrastructure Manager that is an entity outside Transnet freight Rail which is in line with the rail reform process. Private sector operators will therefore be guaranteed unbiased access to the network. This is in line with the DoT and the Interim Rail Economic Regulator.
Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not Approved
Jacky Molisane P J Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
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