NSW: Strike vote next week threatens more train chaos

AAP General News (Australia)
02-14-2004
NSW: Strike vote next week threatens more train chaos

More train chaos is likely to hit Sydney next week, with maintenance workers planning
to stage a 24-hour strike over what they say are faulty new drug and alcohol tests.

The Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union says members will vote next week on a resolution
to strike on Friday.

Union state president TIM AYRES says the strike has been endorsed by delegates and
is expected to gain 100 per cent support from the workers.

Mr AYRES says it will force the cancellation of some services, because Countrylink,
regional and intercity trains must have daily safety checks.

He says the strike has been made necessary by Transport Minister MICHAEL COSTA's refusal
to discuss problems with the new random drug and alcohol tests.

It comes after the New South Wales government smoothed out a week of train cancellations
caused by drivers refusing to work overtime -- by giving the drivers up to $400 a month
in bonus payments.

AAP RTV jo/wjf

KEYWORD: TRAINS (SYDNEY)

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