Secretary’s wrap

It’s all systems go in the Loco Division at the moment.

Unfortunately we’re in the process of arranging protected industrial action ballots for a number of workplaces – Freightliner Coal, and the PN Intermodal Division Port Kembla Outsourced Projects.

In all instances, the company has point blank refused to negotiate in good faith. We’ve been trying to meet with management in an attempt to reach and agreement that works for both the company and its workforce, but they’re refusing to play ball.

While industrial action is always the last resort, the companies have left with no alternative. It’s disappointing to see management refuse to treat its workforce with the respect they deserve.

We’ll be doing everything we can to try to get them back to the table, and members in those affected areas should stay tuned for further updates.

We’ve also just had some breaking news out of SSR, with the company finally agreeing to meet with the union to discuss the wage freeze it is trying to implement.

Until now, the company had refused to discuss the situation, and potential options, with the union so this meeting, which is scheduled for 8 October, is a step in the right direction.

We’ll keep you posted on the outcome of that meeting.

And in a further update, the NSW Trains and Sydney Trains EA’s are before the FWC today for approval. Both agreements will come into force seven days after approval and the Entities will make the necessary calculations for the back pay once the agreements have been approved.

I trust you’ll enjoy this edition of Loco Express. Stay safe on the tracks and have a great long weekend.

Bob Hayden

Secretary, Loco Division