Safety Derails Train Talks

Talks for an enterprise bargaining agreement covering 2,500 workers at Pacific National have broken down over the company’s attempts to link wage outcomes to safety regulation.

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union says its members have become the 'meat in the sandwich' in a long-running dispute between Pacific National and the Carr Government.

"We have told the company we are prepared to trial Driver Only - Mainline in accordance with the safety requirements of the rail regulator," RTBU national president Bob Hayden says.

"But the rail regulator has advised both the company and the union that he does not want to allow a trial until the Waterfall Inquiry is complete," Hayden says.

NSW Government figures show 90 per cent of all breakdown delays on the State Rail network are caused by Pacific National trains. "

Pacific National is also spending less time and resources on keeping their trains safely maintained.

"By linking pay outcomes to the decision of the independent rail regulator, Pacific National is making RTBU members the meat in the sandwich in its quarrel with the NSW Government," Hayden says.

"Given this attitude, our members will meet early next week to consider their options."

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Last modified: Tuesday, 15-Nov-2005 20:37:38 EST