It looks like industrial action on the Central Coast rail network is on hold, at least for now, with both the NW Government and rail unions taking credit for a major step in overcoming ongoing disputes over safety, wages and conditions.
Rail Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) Secretary Alex Claessens said the Government has finally agreed to sign a deed committing it to making safety changes to the New Intercity Fleet.
The government has also agreed to a number of outstanding claims from workers and to arbitrate in the Fair Work Commission on the remaining items, he said.
“After a long dispute, rail workers have finally forced the NSW Government to commit to providing safe trains and a fair enterprise agreement,” he said.
“While we’re not at the finish line yet, (we) have pushed the government to the point where a fair agreement is firmly within reach.
“We knew that eventually common-sense would prevail and the government would come to the table with a commitment to deliver the safe trains and the fair enterprise agreement commuters and workers deserve.
“There is still more work to be done, but this is a significant step forward in this long running dispute.
“This win for workers means there is no need for the industrial action planned for next week.”
A NSW Government spokesperson said ongoing disruptions to the Sydney rail network had forced it to “put the people of Sydney first”.
“For too long school kids, people going to work and small businesses have had their lives and businesses turned upside down by industrial action by the rail unions,” the spokesperson said.
“We have now agreed to a Fair Work Commission process which will result in a vote by the Combined Rail Unions and an ongoing arbitration process on a small number of outstanding items.
“While these Fair Work Commission processes are underway, the Combined Rail Unions have agreed not to undertake any industrial action.”
Terry Collins