MEEGAN Fitzharris says today marks the start of a new era of integrated transport and high quality local services for Canberrans as a new government directorate begins work.

“Transport Canberra and City Services Directorate (TCCS) brings together ACTION buses, light rail, roads, active travel and our city’s vital local services, connecting services for the people of Canberra,” Meegan said.

“Over the last few months, there has been extensive work to prepare for the start of TCCS. The directorate will continue this work to further improve customer services, including through the use of emerging technology.

“Customer experience is at the heart of TCCS and the new directorate will ensure our community has the opportunity to directly influence the services we provide in the future.

“The new Director-General Emma Thomas will lead her team to improve services from the customer’s point of view.

“TCCS will continue to manage and deliver the essential services Canberrans rely on each day, including our public libraries, recycling and waste services, road management, graffiti removal, shop and playground upgrades, maintenance of open public spaces including shopping centres, animal welfare and grass mowing.

“The directorate also maintains responsibility for Capital Linen Service, Yarralumla Nursery and the ACT Public Cemeteries Authority.

“Through providing these vital city services and an integrated transport network, the new directorate will ensure Canberra remains a great place to live, work, study and relax.

“By strategically aligning transport and local services, the new directorate will have a strong focus on ensuring Canberra remains the world’s most liveable city, while also meeting the infrastructure needs of our increasing population.

“I look forward to seeing the achievements and innovative solutions rolled out by the new directorate in the coming months.”

To celebrate the start of TCCS, Minister Fitzharris attended a meet and greet breakfast this morning at Belconnen depot with people from the new directorate’s City Presentation team, including horticulturalists, tree surgeons, mower operators and cleaning and maintenance employees.

On Monday (4 July), the Minister, stakeholders and Directorate staff will also launch the new Transport Canberra agency and the new City Bus Loop.