Transport Minister Shoots From the Hip – Again

Transport Minister Andrew Constance’s decision to escalate the dispute over privatisation of buses to the Supreme Court shows he has no ability to manage his portfolio, RTBU Bus Division Secretary Chris Preston said today.

“This is a Minister that shoots from the hip, he rules through lawyer and media release – rather than talking to the community and his workforce.”

“The public transport workforce has no confidence in Andrew Constance and after this week’s events it seems the public has no confidence either.”

“If Minister Constance believes he can sue his way to privatising Sydney’s bus system against the wishes of the community and public transport workers he is gravely mistaken.”

“Bus drivers, with the support of the Inner West community are simply standing up against Minister Constance’s plans to privatise Sydney’s public transport system, a plan he has no mandate and no public support for.”

“It’s an absolute disgrace that they’re now being dragged into the Supreme Court by the Minister’s expensive lawyers in an effort to silence their voices.”

“We are willing to talk to sit down and talk to the Government, but all we’ve received are surprise attacks, media statements and threatening legal letters.”

“The Supreme Court action will do nothing to resolve these issues. That’s why we again call on the Premier to intervene and bring her Minister into line.”