Melbourne Tramway driver strike (photo No. 7)
On Friday, the Melbourne tram service came to a halt as drivers held a strike to improve salary and working conditions.
(Yarra Trams) drivers of Yala Tramways held a strike event starting at 10:00 for four hours on Friday, Radio 7 reported. Strike drivers have called for a 6 per cent raise and job security.
Prior to this, the negotiations between the Melbourne Trams and the Rail, Tram and Bus Union have lasted for more than five months.
Luba Grigorvitch, secretary of rail, tram and bus trade union, said: "Our members are forced to position that because (carrier) management plans to employ a large number of part-time workers, a shorter shift system and a change of the watch list will undermine the stability and culture of the tramway service."
During the four-hour strike event, the tram driver will also go to (Victorian Trades Hall) demonstration., the Victoria Trade Museum.
Yala Tramways said the strike operation was not necessary.
"it is a pity that this dispute will cause inconvenience to thousands of Victorian residents who rely on Melbourne trams," said Weimar (Jeroen Weimar), director of the Transportation Bureau.
Authorities has arranged for bus replacement tram services to remind residents to avoid unnecessary travel or consider taking other means of transport.
Tram service is expected to be delayed by at least another hour after the tram service resumes at 2 p.m. this afternoon.
