Metro, Yarra Trams forced to pay compensation after failing reliability targets
Commuters who regularly ride with Metro Trains and Yarra Trams will be able to claim compensation after both operators failed their January reliability targets.
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Commuters who regularly ride with Metro Trains and Yarra Trams will be able to claim compensation after union disputes damaged their January performance results.
Both operators failed their reliability targets, based on how much of the timetable they deliver, and must pay out customers as a result.
Anyone with a Myki pass, valid for 28 days or more, that was used on Metro or Yarra Trams services on at least 10 days in January can apply for a free daily ticket.
The poor result has been directly linked to tram strikes and a court battle with the Rail, Tram and Bus Union.
A group of train drivers refused to drive on newly upgraded tracks built near South Yarra as they believed they did not receive proper training.
The dispute was resolved in the Fair Work Commission but not before Metro was forced to cancel services because of driver shortages.
Storms and hot weather also impacted schedules throughout the month.
“January was a more consistent month overall for performance – but we are deeply disappointed that we weren’t able to meet our targets,” a Metro spokesman said.
“Passengers are eligible for compensation because that’s what they deserve.”
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The Department of Transport’s head of transport services, Jeroen Weimar, urged the union and operators to come to an agreement.
“It is frustrating that these disruptions impact our passengers who rely on trains and trams to get them where they need to go,” he said.
Yarra Trams ran more than 3700 extra trips during the Australian Open but industrial action and hot weather also dragged down results.
V/Line reported improvements in punctuality and reliability, particularly on Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo lines.
RTBU state secretary Luba Grigorovitch said:
“Metro’s continued attack on its workers and maintenance budgets have resulted yet another month of substandard services.”