BUSWAYS SERVICE DISRUPTIONS EXPECTED NEXT MONDAY DUE TO STOP WORK ACTION
On Monday, 29 August 2016, a number of drivers who are members of the Transport Workers Union in the Western Sydney and Central Coast depots will stop work for four hours from 5am-9am. This action is a result of ongoing negotiations for enterprise agreements.
Regrettably there will be disruptions to route and school services during the stoppage and buses will not be operating to timetable.
School and route services in the morning will be affected. Parents and customers are advised to make alternative travel arrangements for Monday morning.
Given that the stop work action will be undertaken during a peak transit time affecting commuters and more importantly school children, Busways initiated proceedings yesterday with the Fair Work Commission for an order to suspend the industrial action on public welfare and safety grounds. However the Fair Work Commission declined to make an order to suspend the industrial action.
Whilst Busways is disappointed with the decision, Busways is continuing its efforts to minimise the impacts of the industrial action. In particular, Busways has taken the following steps to address the effects of the industrial action:
On Wednesday 24 August 2016, all 330 schools in the areas affected were notified of the stoppage.
On Thursday 25 August 2016, notices were posted on buses in both regions. Busways staff will be available at key interchanges to assist customers with information and flyers will be distributed to all passengers travelling on our services from Friday morning.
In addition, arrangements are being made to cover as many absent drivers as possible.
Busways apologises for any inconvenience this may cause our customers and appreciates the community’s understanding as we continue to work with the Transport Workers Union to resolve these issues.
Customers should visit our website at www.busways.com.au to stay up-to-date with the latest information.