Rees and Campbell heckled by rail workers

Issue 

SYDNEY— NSW Premier Nathan Rees and Transport Minister David Campbell had to flee an angry group of rail unionists at a scheduled press conference at Central Station on August 6.

The protesters demanded to know why the increased use of public transport touted by the government was being met with "staff reviews" and other "cost cutting" measures, leaving stations either unstaffed or understaffed.

The Rail Tram and Bus Union had previously agreed to be part of the staff review committees, but withdrew support because management representatives had not "done their homework" and had bogged the process down with inaccurate data.

Commuters have responded to the Save Our Stations Campaign run by rank-and-file unionists. The campaign's slogan — "Our community deserves better" — is about rail workers joining with the community to defend public transport.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.