Earlier in the month, Sydney Trains workers announced they were going on a 24-hour strike following a breakdown in negotiations between the train union and rail management. This would have caused mass delays across the city’s entire train and tram networks between January 29 and January 30.
For those who missed the memo, the planned strike was blocked by the Fair Work Commission last Thursday. So does this mean it’s business as usual? Well, not necessarily.
The Fair Work Commission has ordered NSW rail workers to cancel their strike due to the potential danger it posed to commuters and the economy. Any worker who defies the order will face individual fines of up to $12,600.
However, this doesn’t mean that your train will definitely run on time today. As noted in the SMH, January 29 is expected to put massive strain on Sydney’s understaffed train network.
Thousands of students and educational staff return to school this week, which means the controversial new timetable is about to endure one of its biggest tests. Tellingly, extra bus services have been scheduled across Sydney today to offset any potential disruptions.
With that said, commuter congestion is unlikely to be anywhere near as chaotic as if the strike had gone ahead. If you are unable to take the day off or work from home, you should make it to your workplace eventually. Just make sure your gadgets are charged – you could be in for a longer commute than expected.
To keep abreast of possible delays, check out our comprehensive guide to Sydney Trains apps, tools and other dissemination services.
[referenced url=”https://www.lifehacker.com.au/2018/01/heres-what-a-train-driver-thinks-of-the-sydney-strike/” thumb=”https://www.lifehacker.com.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2018/01/trains1-410×231.jpg” title=”Here’s What A Train Driver Thinks Of The Sydney Strike” excerpt=”Since Christmas Eve, Charlie’s* only had five days off of work.
For eight years, he’s been dedicated to his job. He loves his job. It’s challenging and mentally demanding but Charlie knows it inside out. Yet lately, excessive overtime and an increased workload has left him feeling dispirited and disillusioned.
Charlie is a Sydney Train Driver and he’s exhausted.”]
[Via SMH]
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