Description

The risk that politicians decide on a different setup for the main rail network franchise or the position of NS Stations, which would affect NS’s business operations and put pressure on the performance delivered to passengers. The State Secretary for Infrastructure and Water Management has announced that a decision will be taken in 2020 on the market regulation of the rail sector.

Explanation

The coalition agreement contains a small number of expressed intentions relating to the regulation of the railways that might affect NS. For example, the cabinet is investigating the possible decentralisation of four railway lines. The State Secretary for Infrastructure and Water Management has also announced a number of studies that will help her in the decision on the regulation of the rail sector. She will, for example, be looking at the ownership and operation of stations and a study of the HSL is planned. The outcomes of the midterm review will also be taken into account.

Measures

Various improvement programmes are being implemented within NS. Their effects are evident in improved performance, both in train services and in and around stations. However, the HSL South is lagging behind, both because of its system and its rolling stock. NS is also on schedule for achieving its performance agreements. Furthermore, NS is working continuously on improving its services to passengers. NS is cooperating with the ministry’s preparatory studies for the decision on the market regulation of the rail sector.

Risk control trend

Uncertainty concerning market regulation remains as great as ever. NS is constantly making every effort to ensure it can continue to deliver a good level of performance.