THE RTBU (Rail, Tram and Bus Union) has notified V/Line of its intention to take industrial action, involving a work stoppage between 3am to 7am tomorrow (Thursday, January 25).
This would be the second disruption to the regional rail network in a month and is expected to affect all lines.
In a statement, V/Line said “Key proposals in relation to other operational staff do not impact the take-home pay of employees”.
“As a public sector agency, V/Line must comply with the Victorian government Wages Policy and Enterprise Bargaining Framework.
“V/Line are working hard to finalise a plan for replacement coaches and will notify passengers of these plans as soon as possible.
“Passengers should check the V/Line website, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) pages for the latest information.”
V/Line Chief Executive, Matt Carrick said the company has been continuing to negotiate in good faith with the RTBU and have made progress towards reaching an agreement.
“We strongly encourage the union to work collaboratively with us to reach a fair and reasonable agreement,” he said.
“Passengers can keep up to date with the latest information on the V/Line website and our social channels.”
As reported by Rail Express, RTBU Branch Secretary Vik Sharma said although bargaining since June last year, V/Line was yet to address key concerns that have been raised throughout the negotiations to date.
“This decision to further escalate the campaign comes after RTBU negotiating team met again with V/Line on Wednesday, January 10, with no progress being made on key issues,” he said.
“Bargaining representatives will continue to make themselves available to meet with V/Line management in a bid to drive progress on the dispute and avert the planned industrial action.
“The RTBU has provided V/Line with ample notice to have the outstanding matters resolved whilst providing travelling public with maximum notice to make alternative travel arrangements for the day.”
