QR Intermodal workers set for a good agreement

QR Intermodal members look set to receive a good outcome in Enterprise Agreement negotiations, with the company coming to the table on a number of areas outlined by the membership.

During a recent meeting with the company, QR proposed a roll over of the EA, which expired on 31 October, and a 2 per cent pay rise and a possible Tonnage Payment.

The RTBU negotiating team went back to the company saying that a roll over of the EA is a good idea – however a much higher pay increase would need to accompany it.

As a result, QR has agreed to the following terms:

– A 5 per cent pay increase from 31 October 2012

– Roll over the EA until 31 June 2013 with negotiations to begin in March 2013

– Inclusion of Forecast Rostering provisions

– The removal of the Interstate Container Task, which was not guaranteed, not did it increase the hourly rate or pay for all purposes as the 5 per cent does.

The RTBU negotiating team believe the new Variation Agreement is a good outcome for members.

The new Variation Agreement will be sent to all members to vote on in the coming days. After receiving the agreement, members have seven days to consider your vote. The voting process will be done by postal ballot organised by the AEC.

There will be a National Tour starting from next week to explain the Variation Agreement to members. Times, dates and depot locations will be advised asap.