Metro bus drivers set to walk off the job in Launceston as wage negotiations stall

Launceston commuters could be hit by service disruptions on Thursday as some bus drivers take strike action over lunchtime. The details.

Tasmanian Metro bus commuters in Hobart.

Dozens of bus services in Launceston could face disruptions on Thursday as workers walk off the job following months of stalled negotiations over employment conditions and entitlements.

Employees of bus operator Metro Tasmania network, aligned with the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) Tasmania, will undertake a one-hour strike from 1.03pm to 2.03pm bringing lunch time services to a halt.

RTBU Tasmania secretary Byron Cubit said the stop work was a “measured response” to the company’s pushback against workers’ demands.

“Bus drivers are frustrated with the offer from Metro that’s on the table, which is effectively an 18-month pay freeze before the next pay rise kicks in,” Mr Cubit said.

“It is disappointing that drivers feel they need to escalate their action in order to get Metro management to take their Enterprise Agreement claims seriously.

“Northern bus drivers will use this work stoppage as an opportunity to get together for a short meeting on the enterprise bargaining negotiations, and to discuss their next steps.”

Bus traffic on Elizabeth Street in Hobart. Picture: Sam Rosewarne.

Mr Cubit said other industrial action would also commence on Thursday, including bans on using mobile phones while on shift, driving buses with defects, and operating buses without a fully operational Closed Circuit Television or Bus Control Unit.

Commuters should expect delays and disruptions to services as the industrial actions will affect the availability of both staff and buses.

Mr Cubit said the state government had taken its eye off the ball with the negotiations, and was potentially sleepwalking into another transport-related crisis.

“While Jeremy Rockliff is preoccupied with no-confidence motions and Cabinet reshuffles, a looming crisis on Tasmania’s bus network is being ignored,” he said.

“Drivers do not want this dispute to drag on into the busy Christmas holiday and tourist season.

“The state government must ensure that Metro Tasmania is properly resourced, and Metro staff have competitive wages and conditions.”

The state government has been contacted for comment.