FWC to convene Aurizon meeting

The RTBU will meet with Aurizon representatives today in a bid to resolve the current dispute in the Hunter.

Workers in the Hunter Valley voted to take part in rolling 24-hour stoppages over the week following the company’s refusal to negotiate a fair agreement with its workforce.

Loco Division Secretary Bob Hayden said the RTBU will approach the negotiations, which are being convened by the Fair Work Commission, with a view to resolving the dispute and getting a fair agreement for workers.

“It’s unfortunate that it’s had to get to this point, but we’re hopeful that today’s meeting in the Fair Work Commission will be fruitful,” Bob Hayden said.

“Workers deserve an agreement that provides them with fair wages and conditions. At the moment the company is refusing to deliver that, but we’re hopeful that if the company stays true to its word and comes back to the negotiating table in good faith, we’ll achieve a fair outcome for workers.

RTBU National Secretary Bob Nanva said that the company has had every opportunity to engage in meaningful negotiations.

“They have failed to do so. The company has left us with no option but to take employee response action.”