Train Workers Protest Discrimination

Date: 16 July 2003

Ninety workers at the EDI Rail factory in Bathurst, who manufacture key components of the Millennium Trains, have extended a strike in pursuit of the same conditions that their metropolitan colleagues receive.

The workers downed tools in protest three weeks over a refusal by the company to guarantee no forced redundancies and to guarantee their accrued entitlements would be secured in the event of a closure of the Bathurst factory.

The 90 workers today voted to remain on strike and reject an offer from the company, which was substantially less than what EDI offered workers at their Newcastle factory.

The Australian Workers' Union State President, Mick Madden said that the striking workers were offended by EDI's discrimination against workers in the bush.

"It seems that if you work in a metropolitan area and do the same job as a country worker your worth more in EDI's eyes. This is discrimination by postcode". Mr. Madden said.

"The Bathurst community owe it to these workers to rally behind them and say no to discrimination against country people. These workers are concerned about their futures which have been placed in jeopardy by the failure of the Millennium Trains."

Mr. Madden said that the ongoing strike could delay the roll out of the next Millennium Train.

"It's regrettable that the new train may be delayed by the action at Bathurst, but it has been EDI Management's refusal to negotiate in good faith that has led to this impasse," he said.

The 90 workers are continuing to hold a peaceful protest outside the factory on the Great Western Highway, Kelso.

For further information

Contact:	Paul Howes
Union:	The Australian Workers' Union Greater NSW Branch
Phone:	02 9897 3644
Contact Mobile:	0425 238 901
Fax:	02 9897 1481
Email:	phowes@awu-nsw.asn.au
WWW:	http://www.awu-nsw.asn.au

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