Media Statement – For Immediate Release Port Marlborough Responds to Government Decision on iReX Project Funding Port Marlborough, a key partner in the Inter-Island Resilient Connection (iReX) project, is surprised by the announcement made by the Government in their decision not to provide further funding for this critical infrastructure project. While the KiwiRail Board have announced that they will now assume responsibility for the orderly closure of the iReX project, Port Marlborough remains committed to supporting and facilitating an enhanced and resilient SH1 link through the port, and will also be conducting a thorough review of the project, taking into account the changing circumstances Rhys Welbourn, CEO of Port Marlborough says: “We share in the disappointment felt throughout our region and the country by those who are involved in this project. Our commercial team at the port have worked hard to ensure that Port Marlborough has not suffered any financial loss as a result of the work done to date, and as the Mayor has previously indicated, we have agreements in place with KiwiRail that require the completion of early works which are underway, and the reinstatement of any affected assets. The purpose of the iReX project was to deliver a future-proofed, more resilient and sustainable State Highway 1 across Cook Strait, and it is clear these are the minimum requirements of any new projects put on the table after iReX, for the inter-island service. Our long-standing commitment to supporting the enhancement of this vital link and delivering success for Marlborough remains, and we will continue to collaborate closely with KiwiRail and the government as we navigate the way forward.” ## Ends ## For Media Enquiries please contact Connie Smith | Port Marlborough NZ Ltd, 027 404 6135 connie.smith@pmnz.co.nz
