RTBU calls off Melbourne tram strike because of Extinction Rebellion protests
Staff were set to walk off the job for more than four hours this week but a planned strike across Melbourne’s tram network has been called off in response to the week-long climate protests.
VIC News
Don't miss out on the headlines from VIC News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A planned strike across Melbourne’s tram network has been called off in response to the week-long Extinction Rebellion protests.
Staff were set to walk off the job for more than four hours on Thursday but the Rail Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) agreed to change their plans over safety concerns.
More than 3000 climate change protesters are expected to be in Melbourne CBD during the strike and staff were concerned blockades would have trapped trams and their drivers in city streets.
The RTBU and Yarra Trams have agreed to postpone the stoppage but is understood the union has left open the option for more strikes.
It comes as union delegates made their first offer to the tram operator that compromised on requests for a 6 per cent pay rise year on year.
The RTBU has instead asked for an annual 5 per cent increase but has held firm on maintaining a cap on the number of part-time staff.
Yarra Trams chief executive Nicolas Gindt said he welcomed the union’s show of good faith.
“At the end of the day, safety is top priority for everybody at Yarra Trams,” he said.
“Last week, the RTBU gave a proposal to Yarra Trams, showing a willingness to move from their initial position.
“While this is pleasing, the proposal does not include any components that would allow us to increase our part-time workforce, and the wage claim of 5 per cent annually is still high in the current economic context.
MORE NEWS
LOVE MATCH STIRS UP A STORM IN COURT
NEW VAPING WARNING AS ILLNESS CASES SOAR
“We are still in the process of considering all aspects of the RTBU’s proposal and will respond soon.”
In a letter to members, RTBU tram division secretary Tarik Koc said they were still waiting for a response to their offer.
“If our fair and reasonable offer is not accepted we will shortly notify Yarra Trams of further industrial action,” Mr Koc said.