Sydney commuters are set to face significant disruptions this week as light rail workers plan to shut down tram services over pay and conditions.
From Monday to Friday, all inner-Sydney light rail lines will grind to a halt during peak hours from 8am to 10am, and 4pm to 6pm.
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The Rail Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) is protesting against transport operator Transdev’s refusal to meet their demands for increased sick leave and a pay rise that aligns with the rising cost of living.
The union was dissatisfied with the operator’s 18 per cent pay rise offer, demanding a 23 per cent increase over four years instead.
Tram and Bus Divisional Secretary David Babineau said: “Four years ago that may have been OK but in the last four years, we have seen every single commodity from energy to food to petrol and rent has increased significantly.”
Mr Babineau also emphasised the importance of annual sick leaves for their workers.
“It’s not only just when they’re sick, but if they’re drivers or network controllers on a very tight roster, people use sick days when they’re just too fatigued to do their job safely.”
Buses will replace all light rail services during the strike.
Transdev’s Sydney Managing Director, Arsene Durand-Raucher, apologised for the disruptions and urged customers to plan ahead.
“We are working hard with transport partners to minimise impact to customers caused by this industrial action,” Mr Durand-Raucher said.
Customers should plan ahead and consider alternate transport options during the disruption period or, if possible, avoid non-essential travel on the trams.”
Staff will also be stationed to manage the disruptions while the negotiation between the two parties continues.
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