We have an extraordinary situation:
- The ACTION bus drivers said they want marshals directing people at the stadium before, during and after the game.
- ACTION management said no, it’s too expensive, we’ll only have marshals at the end of the game.
- The bus drivers then said they wouldn’t drive, and ACTION have been forced to sub-contract to Deane’s
Alistair Coe MLA, Shadow Minister for Urban Services, said that ACTION buses were not being used this weekend for the Brumbies vs Force game and special Canberra Show services because of staff – management dispute.
“Today in committee hearings I questioned TAMS, ACTION and the Chief Minister as to why Deane’s / Transborder buses were being used for the special services on the weekend,” Mr Coe said.
“It was revealed to the committee that despite buses and drivers being available, the drivers have refused to cooperate because ACTION management sought to change the role of marshals for the bus services.”
In the past up to five marshals have been present before, during and after the game.
“ACTION management said the past arrangement was excessive and proposed that only four marshals would be required after the game to direct people to the right bus for their trip home. ACTION drivers then refused to operate any service to the Brumbies match or the Canberra Show.”
“In the face of a public relations disaster, with potentially no buses being available for the Brumbies match or Canberra Show, ACTION management has been forced to bring in a private operator to ensure that Brumbies fans and Canberra Show patrons are not put out by the industrial chaos.”
“It’s great to see a local company step up to the plate when the Government can’t deliver.”
