Talks Produce Breakthrough in Rail Dispute

Transport Minister John Mickel has welcomed the withdrawal late today of threatened strike action by rail unions next week.

“This is undeniably good news for the travelling public. It is the breakthrough that we have been working towards,” Mr Mickel said.

“It means that rail services will operate as per normal next Monday and Wednesday.

“I am pleased that people will be able to get to and from work and businesses will be able to operate normally. This is particularly important in these tough economic times.

“We had a Plan B, in terms of contingency arrangements if the strikes went ahead. I am pleased that we now won’t have to activate it.”

The Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Employees, the Rail, Tram and Bus Union and QR will return to the negotiating table next week to talk through outstanding issues with the proposed traincrew agreement.

The parties have set aside three days from Monday to Wednesday next week for the discussions.

These discussions will be facilitated independently by a commissioner from the Australian Industrial Relations Commission.

Mr Mickel said he hoped the talks planned for next week would provide a platform for the resolution of the dispute.