Transport stop-works

Issue 

Transport stop-works

By Rebecca Meckelburg

ADELAIDE — Members of the Australian Tramways and Motor Omnibus Employees Association in SA held a stop-work on October 7.

The meeting was to discuss the Industrial Relations Commission's decision allowing the State Transport Authority to employ 30% of its 1300 bus drivers as casuals. The ATMOEA is appealing against the decision.

The union's state secretary, Tom Morgan, faces dismissal over his handling of the STA's push for casual drivers. Morgan informed the IRC that the application "had merit". He is also alleged to have ignored national union policy.

At the same time, the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen held a stop-work to discuss its campaign for a 12.8% wage rise — made up of 4.8% for agreeing to enterprise bargaining conditions and 8% to catch up on pay rises promised last year, when train guards were replaced by transit police.

The STA is offering 8%. AFULE state secretary Rex Phillips said the union opposed the STA's insistence on the workers agreeing to strike or claim wage rises outside the national wage case for three years. n

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.