Government must come clean about public transport privatisation

The Rail Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) is calling on the NSW Government to come clean on whether it plans to privatise bus services currently run by the State Transit Authority (STA).

“The people of NSW have every right to know what’s happening to their public transport services and our members have a right to know what’s happening to their jobs” RTBU Bus and Tram Division Secretary Chris Preston said.The RTBU and combined Unions met today in response to news reported by Fairfax, that the NSW Government will open to tender bus services that are currently run by the STA.

“NSW commuters deserve to be told if their bus services are going to be privatised, leading to potential cuts in services and reduced routes.”

“People who rely in public transport, the elderly, those with mobility problems or people living with a disability need to be consulted before decisions are made that would leave them stranded.”

Chris Preston also said that bus drivers were deeply concerned about the announcement and the impact this would have on their employment security.

“Understandably, our hard working members are worried about their future job security.”

“Many of them have families they need to look after and they deserve to know whether the NSW Government is going to throw them under a privatised bus.”

“We’re calling on the Government to be straight with commuters and our members with its plans for their future.”

“Our members, the public bus drivers of Sydney, deserve clarity and certainty around their jobs and their futures.”

The STA contracts cover the CBD, the northern beaches, Parramatta, the eastern suburbs and south to suburbs such as Mascot.

“The STA has 12 bus depots in Sydney and about 3700 drivers, almost all of whom are members of our union, so privatisation wouldn’t happen without a fight.”