LocoTV – 13 March 2014

In this edition of LocoTV, hear the latest on the Aurizon negotiations, the Rail Entities negotiations, staff car parks and QUBE discussions.

Transcript

1.

The battle to ensure rail entities are covered by one agreement, rather than separate agreements for each business section, is continuing.

The latest news is that managers have been ordered to hold one-to-one or small group meetings with staff in an attempt to convince them that having multiple agreements is the better option.

The Combined Rail Unions consider this to be yet another instance of the rail entities failing to negotiate in good faith.

Once the scope matter is resolved, the union delegates will prepare for the resumption of regular meetings with the company in an attempt to achieve a fair agreement for all workers.

You can get regular updates on the negotiations on the Loco Express and Our Transport websites.

2.

Aurizon and the union are continuing their discussions in the Fair Work Commission in a bid to resolve the current dispute in the Hunter.

The negotiations follow rolling 24 hours stoppages in the region after the company refused to negotiate a fair agreement with its workers.

Loco Division Secretary Bob Hayden says that it is disappointing that the company have let it get to this point of protected industrial action, but workers have had no choice following the company’s stubborn refusal to budge on key issues for members.

Messages of support for Aurizon members have been flowing in from all over the country. There have even been messages from the International Rail Workers Federation who represent the 4.5million transport workers globally and the International Centre for Labor Solidarity.

Further meetings are scheduled in the Fair Work Commission over the coming week.

3.

The State Government has revealed its plans to take away 1000 staff car spots – a move the RTBU says could have an impact on the timely running of the rail network.

The Loco Division is concerned that if trains drivers are forced to drive around searching for parks, it will result in delays.

The State Government suggested the parks were vacated by workers who have left the company, however this suggestion has been dismissed as disingenuous.

The Loco Division will continue to argue against any attempt by the Government to cease supplying safe and adequate car parking for members who need parking in order to provide a reliable and on time service to the travelling public.

4.

Negotiations for a new enterprise agreement with QUBE have now begun.

A log of claims has been drafted based on member surveys and feedback, which has now been presented to the company.

The company has agreed in-principle to many of the claims including having RDOs rostered together and a guaranteed full payment for 76hour duty cycles.

At the moment, the only claim from the company is to make Sydney a base with multiple sign on locations at Minto, Yennora and Botany.

Nothing will be agreed without member support. Stay tuned for further information as negotiations progress.