Ferries are expected to steer clear of Sydney Harbour routes tomorrow (September 2) as staff meet to discuss a wage claim.
The Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) says that its members will stop work from 9am-2pm in protected industrial action.
Services to Manly, Circular Quay, Parramatta and other services will be affected but not the Manly Fast Ferry, the state government says.
Opal Card readers on the ferries also expected to switch off from 2pm tomorrow for the rest of the day, the union says.
The meeting is to discuss a new work deal and a 5% wage increase with private operator Transdev, according to the MUA.
Members want a guaranteed annual wage increase to protect members against inflation and rising living costs.
Transport NSW is warning that services may be delayed of cancelled before and after the affected hours; click here to read more.
PUSH TO RECOGNISE FERRIES WORK
MUA deputy branch Secretary Paul Garrett claims workers have repeatedly gone above and beyond to keep Sydney ferries running and now want recognition from Transdev.
“Our members kept Sydney Ferries running throughout COVID, dealt with a fleet of 13 overseas-built vessels that were not fit-for-purpose, and continued to work long and demanding hours to keep the public moving,” he says.
Garrett claims Transdev have not yet tabled a serious wage proposal with staff “determined” to find a way to ensure their wages keeps pace with inflation.
“Sydney Ferries workers will not sign off on an agreement that whittles away their purchasing power year after year while the cost of living keeps going up,” he says.
“Sydney Ferries workers do not take industrial action lightly, particularly when they know it affects the travelling public.
“Our members have been pushed to this point. They are prepared to escalate this campaign until Transdev realises that its workforce deserves a fair deal.”
The MUA warned that more industrial action could follow if no “serious” offer is made by Transdev.
