
Issue No 72		06 October 2000

LaborNET	Ask Neale	Tool of the Week

News

Pressures Mount on Truckies

The Transport Workers Union is calling on the Federal Government to introduce a system of licensing and protection for the industry through an enforceable code of practice.

This would include a minimum sustainable rate, a maximum 14 day payment system and client responsibility for how their goods are transported.

This follows a tragic collision of trucks on the Newell Highway just outside the western NSW town of Narrabri earlier this week which left three people dead.

The Transport Worker's Union has called on the Government to urgently act to ease the pressures, including high fuel prices that are forcing transport workers and their families over the edge.

"While our condolences go out to the families of those killed, these tragic deaths make it clear that the Federal Government must act urgently to stop the carnage crippling the lives of drivers and their families in the Australian road transport industry," TWU State Secretary Tony Sheldon said.

"While at this stage we don't know who or what was the cause of this accident, the facts remain that the pressures and the demands being placed on drivers in the industry are forcing more and more people over the edge."

"Rising diesel fuel costs of over $1 a litre, increased competition and the continued demands of clients for drivers to meet impossible deadlines are all adding to the pressures facing drivers in the industry."

"As a result drivers are being forced to work and drive longer, harder and faster just in an effort to make ends meet, keep their trucks on the road and maintain their standard of living."

"Unless something is done to ease these pressures, the likelihood of more of these tragic accidents are set to increase," Mr Sheldon said.

For further information or to find out how you can get involved in the fight for better rates and better safety in the transport industry contact the TWU call center on (02) 912 0700.

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Issue 72 contents

Interview: Taking It To The Union Busters
ACTU Assistant Secretary Richard Marles talks to Workers Online about turning back the anti-union sentiment growing in the business community, responsible unionism and the sense of fun to be found at the ACTU.

International: The White Knights
The International Labour Organisation has become the great hope for those fighting to give globalisation a human face. Australian Bob Kyloh is one of those working with trade unions within the ILO to make it happen.

Politics: Industrial Democracy for Australia
Glenn Patmore argues we need new forms of employee representation in the workplace to broaden employee participation.

Unions: Behind The Scenes
In a small office at Homebush Bay, as the world focused on all that was positive about our games, Unions 2000 and SOCOG officials worked tirelessly to ensure that no worker was ripped off. Chris Christoudoulou reports.

Satire: Parade of Icons �Could Have Included Even More Ex-Aussies� Say Critics
The selection of Greg Norman, Paul Hogan and Elle Macpherson to represent Australia in the �Parade of Icons� during the Closing Ceremony of the Sydney Games last night has prompted a storm of complaints from other famous former Australians.

Review: Elliott Smiths Figure 8
Smith is basically the secret love child of the fab four and it�s so blatantly obvious. That�s not a bad thing because one thing Lennon and McCartney were reknown for was there ability to pen catchy tunes.

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