Getting Wairoa Back on Track 2 Contents Editorial ISSUE 3 • SEPTEMBER 2018

The SEPTEMBER 2018

TransporThe journal of the RMTU – NZ'st largest Worker specialist transport union

Getting Wairoa back on track 2 Contents Editorial ISSUE 3 • SEPTEMBER 2018

6 International support

RMTU organiser John Kerr discovers significant support in the UK for NZ's industrial issues.. Wayne Butson 9 Injury update General secretary RMTU

Lyn Heafield describes her lonely life while recuperating from injury. Plenty of positives S we approach our 21st annual and third Biennial Delegates Conference 18 DX upgrade I find myself reflecting on what we have achieved on behalf of members in the last two years and I am impressed at our successes. However, RMTU general and can't help but feel a bit despondent on the lack of success with the secretary Wayne NIMT electrics – but we will keep fighting Butson welcomes AA stand out success for me is that I have just signed on behalf of the RMTU a rumours of a DX settlement of what we came to know as the Chinese workers case. This was a case upgrade. we initiated more than four years ago which claimed a breach of clause 29 of the KiwiRail MECA as well as other related breaches of statute and Good Faith. This was a fight that we had to take if any mechanical workers were to have a job future working for KiwiRail. Between 'warranty' and 'rectification' it appeared to us that the work of repairing the locomotives would always be somebody else's job. The settlement, at its core, sees the confirmation that all warranty and rectification work on the Gen 1, 2 and 2.2s has been handed back to KiwiRail at the date of signing the agreement. It states that following a period of 24 months the Gen 2.3s will return to KiwiRail. COVER PHOTOGRAPH: Wairoa line track gang In short we now have certainty instead of uncertainty. It also puts in place a replace a rotten beam on the last major hurdle requirement on KiwiRail that for future purchases they will – where practicable to getting the line back in action. – provide for all warranty work to be undertaken by KiwiRail employees with full Page 24 knowledge transfer. Another major success was the landmark wages deal we accomplished as part of the KiwiRail MECA. The fact that this even got over the line with our 42 member wider bargaining team is a tribute to the strong collective values and social awareness The Transport Worker is published by the of inequality that this group of key RMTU leaders work to. Rail and Maritime Transport Union, Of even greater satisfaction was the overwhelming endorsement of the flat rate P O Box 1103, Wellington, increase by the members who are covered by the KiwiRail MECA. This will be a last- Aotearoa–New Zealand. ing memory for me and a source of great satisfaction at having been a small part of Design and production by Mike Regan. this achievement. Printed by Pivotal+Thames Publications Ltd, Equally pleasing was our successful completion of collective bargaining industrial P O Box 11–025, Wellington. campaigns with Transdev Wellington, Hyundai Rotem Ltd, Transdev Auckland and Lyttelton Port Company. In all of these disputes we came out the other side with www.rmtunion.org.nz highly engaged members, stronger unity, greater awareness amongst members, new Union leaders and good bargaining outcomes. The Transport Worker September 2018 Worker The Transport ISBN 1173–6488 Lyttelton is settled for three years but both Transdev Wellington and Auckland will LETTERs 3

be repeated this year. What will be different with the two Transdev operations is that they Leading the pack! Retirements are aware that we can deliver targeted and ongratulations to the Rail and effective industrial leverage in pursuit of our Maritime Transport Union and KiwiRail Dear Editor, legitimate claims – including any attempt to on their agreement for a flat rate I wish to resign from the unilaterally implement Driver Only Opera- increaseC for all their workers. It has long been Union as I am taking early tion should TDA be foolish enough to try. my opinion that this is far more equitable than retirement on 31st August. I was deeply disappointed and saddened percentage pay rises. I have been in the rail to note in the release of the much vaunted Just once, way back in the 1980s, I industry for around 37 years managed to convince a PSA branch to agree and have made life time $16.9b National Land Transport package to vote for a flat amount general wage friends. by Transport Minister Phil Twyford the increase, arguing that the cost of living does complete omission of the retention of the not rise in proportion to one’s income but I would just like to thank electric locomotives on the NIMT and lack of by much the same amount for everyone. It everyone of you and also any funding to upgrade or improve KiwiRail's helped that the members were statisticians the Union for your advice core national freight network. and so the mathematical argument carried and support in my ups and My analysis of the funding for KiwiRail some weight. downs at work and in my leads me to conclude that at the end of It cut no ice with the authorities and life . the three year period the core national rail management then or since, and percent- Keep up the great work age increases have been the rule. Therefore, network funding will have tapered back to Dale Loveridge incomes have risen exponentially: the higher Team leader, Glenbrook slightly less than what the last National-led the income the greater the rise. This is mainly Government provided. what caused inequality to increase! Member # 20024. It appears to me that the only rail items Let us hope that this agreement heralds being funded are the French operated a change in thinking and more unions and Dear Editor, Auckland and Wellington metro rail systems workplaces opt for flat amount increases to I wish to advise you that I (minus the Labour-promised Christchurch the advantage of the lower paid groups. have made my decision to suburban rail) and a third track between - Mary Mowbray. retire on August 24, 2018. Westfield and Wiri. This is not the level of I first started work as an support for the national rail system that I expected under this Government. apprentice fitter on 26 Janu- By omitting the $11.01m (or $3.67m pa) that we sought over three years to refurbish the class ary 1960 at Hutt Workshops 30 locomotives this Government has consigned the operation of NZ's only operating electric freight and joined the RTA (Railway line to the scrap heap. All for the sake of it needing a mere 0.0649% of the total NLTS budget for the Tradesman's Association) three years of $16,949m announced. upon completion of that ap- What is especially disappointing is the complete silence of the Greens on the NIMT electric axing prenticeship. Whilst a mem- given that the 'Save our electrics' campaign was initiated by the Green party and to which the RMTU ber I was a shop steward and joined. a branch treasurer. The theme of our upcoming conference is 'Fighting Fatigue for Safety' and delegates will be asked I spent time as an ap- to endorse that the RMTU have as its campaigning focus for 2018 and 2019 a sustained fight to improve prentice instructor in 'Boys rosters and rostering for members in all of our workplaces. Town', worked in the loco Kia kaha brothers and sisters. overhaul group, engine overhaul group, the car and wagon depot, the electric loco depot (EWs), the diesel depot, the east car yard and The Transport Worker September 2018 Unsafe toilets - an international affair the multiple unit depot be- N extraordinary number of our fellow Meanwhile the ITF is seeking worldwide fore becoming a supervisor. workers overseas suffer from health and testimony about how poor sanitation can affect After many positions, I ended safety issues relating directly to poor workers' health and safety. up being redeployed into sanitationA at work. A huge number cannot even RMTU general secretary Wayne Butson says: inventory. rely on a functioning toilet system. "We would be very surprised to find the sort of I have completed 58 This has become such a significant issue that conditions being tackled by this enquiry in New wonderful years with rail the International Transport Workers Federation Zealand but our good fortune does not bar us and wish to acknowledge (ITF) has decided to make it a discussion point from giving our wholehearted support to our the many friends I have made for their upcoming Nov congress in Singapore. fellow workers. Nevertheless, there may still be over those years. They have chosen November 19 as 'World that rogue or ruined toilet out there and, if so, Warmest regards, Toilet Day' to highlight the impact of the denial we would like to know about it. Call or contact Ian Heppleston of this basic human right, and to share successful us if there's a facility at your place of work that is Senior storeman. strategies and tactics to win decent facilities. unsanitary or unsafe – and send us a photo." 4 AGMs

Debt of gratitude Bay of Plenty rail nder the RMTU Rules and Standing Orders branches are required to hold annual general meetings (AGM) in August or September of each year to pass the accounts and elect officers and delegates. ItU is also a time to look back over the activities of the branch and the Union and plan the strategic focus for the next year. It's a time for members and Union staff to thank branch officers and delegates for their tireless work on behalf of members and their peers. These rank and file delegates and branch officers are the life blood of our Union and it is important to recognise and remember that they do most of their Union activity in their own time. With much of their work done during family time we also sincerely thank their families for their forbearance. Your work to safeguard and Otago rail improve the working conditions of RMTU members is hugely appreciated! On these pages are shots of AGMs and members attending – it is democracy in action.

Port Nelson

Port Lyttelton

Port Napier The Transport Worker September 2018 Worker The Transport Campaign 5 Supporting a fair deal air Pay Agreements (FPA) set a ed to decide what's fair. But representatives minimum bar for a whole industry will try to talk through the issues first. FPA or collective? and as such are supported by your "New Zealanders are working longer A collective agreement is negotiated FUnion regardless that we already reach hours. However, the profits they help make between union members and employ- those minimum standards. are not reflected in their pay packets," said ers. You have to be a union member to "It's shameful that the pay of many Butson. "That's not fair. Part of the problem be employed under one. An FPA will workers in New Zealand falls far short is that some businesses compete by pushing cover everyone in a particular industry of these standards," said RMTU general wages down to the lowest possible level, or occupation, whether they are in a secretary Wayne Butson. "We are a strong making it harder for good operators to stay union or not. enough union to stand in solid support in business. We have to change that!" "However, if you are employed behind this campaign." FPAs will create a level playing field, under a collective agreement you are Information from the CTU explains reign in the cowboys, stop the race to the legally protected if you take industrial that FPAs are a way of deciding what is a bottom and set the rules for what's accept- action," said RMTU general secretary fair way to do business and its calculation able practice. At the same time they will Wayne Butson. "Employers also have incorporates pay, hours, leave and other encourage competition through quality the right to use a lockout." conditions of work. and innovation on the basis of being a good The Government has said they will A working group has been set up to employer. not extend these rights to support recommend what FPAs in New Zealand The CTU explains how FPAs particularly negotiating an FPA - but the current will look like. protect small and medium New Zealand rights of working people and employ- "A really good example of this minimum businesses by raising the bar for employers to industrial action shouldn't be bar mechanism is the equal pay settlement ment conditions. They say it can be dif- affected either. for care and support workers begun by the ficult to start up an innovative and ethical actions of Kristine Bartlett in her brave campaign showing ernment will then write the gender bias was at play in draft bill before proceeding her low wages," said Butson. through Parliament. "Her action through to the The CTU says: When we Supreme Court improved have a Fair Pay Agreement minimum pay for an under- law, there will be a process to valued workforce of some follow to negotiate an agree- 55,000 people." ment. There will be minimum The Bartlett settlement, thresholds that groups of in negotiation with employ- working people or employers ers, government, and unions, will have to meet to start ne- covered everyone in those gotiations. If they can't agree, jobs - including non-union there will be an independent members. business in New Zealand when large firms, third party that would arbitrate (decide) on Other countries, including Australia, including multinationals, are able to com- the terms of the Fair Pay Agreement. The Transport Worker September 2018 have 'sector bargaining' like this where pete simply on their size. Some use their Butson adds: "This campaign's aim is working people, represented by their un- high product volume, low-wage business just common good sense. Workers have ions, negotiate and set minimum industry models to drive out local competition and been filling the pockets of their bosses for standards with employers. take money out of our communities. Good years and now it's time they shared that Nothing will change for collective small firms don't have to trade off attract- profit through a reasonable and sensible bargaining between smaller groups of ing the best people to work for them with process. I urge all our members to give seri- working people and employers, says the decent wages, and being profitable. These ous consideration to supporting this pro- CTU, there will just be a new minimum bar businesses will have protection from cow- cess and the new bill in our time-honoured that employers can't undercut. Just like the boys who try to undercut the market. fashion of supporting the working poor in universal minimum wage we already have, It's also easier for everyone to do busi- this country." but there will be specific rules for different ness when you know what's fair, without industries. starting from scratch. n Sign up to the Working People's Charter Sometimes, if no agreement can be The CTU says the working group will for Fair Pay reached, there will be an arbitrator appoint- report back by the end of 2018. The Gov- www.together.org.nz/fair-pay-charter 6 Conference

The French Confédération Générale du Travail representatives David Gobe and David Donnez with RMTU organiser John Kerr at the Waverley Station RMT protest in Edinburgh. NZ industrial action features in UK media and meetings By John Kerr HIS June I had the privilege of once which the RMT works on strong links with rail privatisation. again attending the annual general a group of MPs who share and promote its Brexit is the defining political issue in meeting of our comrade union in values. Representatives of this 'Parliamen- Britain today and is a fault line that divides TBritain, the RMT. Last year I was lucky tary Group' spoke at the AGM. Britons no matter where they sit on the enough to be at the RMT's AGM in Exeter, The RMT constitution is very clear: one political spectrum. together with our national vice-president of the objectives of the union is the replace- Some on the left argue strongly that Howard Phillips, where we heard an elec- ment of capitalism with a socialist society. the European project is worth sticking trifying speech by Jeremy Corbyn, leader In practical terms this means the union puts with – we have to work to change the EU of the Labour Party and the Opposition. As a great deal of time and effort into foster- from within. RMT delegates gathered in Edinburgh this ing strong links with like-minded unions, Other progressive thinkers say the EU year it was clear to everyone that a year is a politicians and progressive organisations, is irrevocably broken and the left has to see very long time indeed in politics. not just in Britain but globally. The battle to Brexit as an opportunity to organise and In 2017 the RMT resolved to debate and re-nationalise rail in Britain is the most obvi- promote a progressive agenda. The RMT is vote on re-affiliation with the British Labour ous example of how this struggle plays out. firmly in the latter camp. Party at a special general meeting. The RMT The extent to which Britain's privatised had been expelled from Blair's 'New Labour' Brexit – a rail system is broken came home to me very for expressing forthright opposition to the defining issue strongly as I joined an RMT protest at Wa- right wing policies of that government – verley Station in Edinburgh to mark the first with Labour seeming to be getting back to With a Conservative government in day of operation of the East Coast Main Line. its social democratic roots under Corbyn power re-nationalisation is highly unlikely. This was a state owned company set up by it was time to have the conversation about Moreover, the RMT's support for leaving the the Tory Transport Minister Chris Grayling. re-affiliation. European Union – Brexit – is an expression The private franchise that previously ran the In the event the RMT decided not to re- of the membership's disenchantment with line had gone bust at the cost of millions affiliate to Labour. This does not mean that Brussel's continued commitment to the of pounds to the British taxpayer. The RMT the RMT lacks a political strategy, far from neo-liberal policies of privatisation and demands the complete re-nationalisation of The Transport Worker September 2018 Worker The Transport it. What is very interesting was the way in austerity. For example, the EU promotes rail, not just a bail out of a broken privatisa- 7 tion project. As members who have travelled overseas fighting for a safe railway. Alongside me on the picket line in Edin- will be aware, when one leaves New Zealand It was heartening to hear our British burgh were two of our comrades from the our country usually disappears from the brothers and sisters' support for not only French railway union, the Confédération airways and newspapers. the RMTU but for New Zealand workers Générale du Travail (CGT). The French are This time New Zealand received a good in general. A photograph demonstrating locked in a struggle with their neo-liberal deal of coverage in British media. The wave solidarity with the NZNO was especially well President Emmanuel Macron, a former mer- of recent strikes were making the news, received on social media by Kiwi nurses. chant banker, who is bent on privatising rail. together with our Prime Minister taking six And that sums up the value of interna- French rail workers have been staging weeks leave to have a baby. The nurses' dis- tional solidarity. When you and your fellow rolling strikes for months now and encour- pute in particular was very well reported. As members are in a dispute it can feel very agingly their resolve and public support your representative I had the opportunity to lonely and isolating. Support from workers remains strong. In fact their membership update our British comrades on the RMTU's many miles away, given freely and uncondi- is growing. disputes with Transdev in Wellington and tionally, is profoundly reaffirming. Similarly, Macron's approval ratings are in steep Auckland, together with the fight at Lyttel- when a French railway worker in Metz, or a decline and one can only hope the French ton port. The Auckland dispute resonated British train guard in Penzance, knows there people do not make the same mistake that with the RMT, as they are in disputes with are fellow workers in Aotearoa backing we made in New Zealand and allow an un- a number of rail franchises in Britain over them, it makes a world of difference. popular government to sell off the railway. the same issue of driver only operation and

The RMT supports New Zealand nurses in their fight for a fair deal. Accident provides lessons N August 22 one of our members, A second key point was that safety is make all the difference. Paul Thompson, on the West paramount – if it doesn’t look or feel right Think about yourself; think about your Coast was seriously injured in an then stop! Members must support one family; think about your workmates. Think Oincident with a hi-rail digger. He was air- another if a worker asks to stop and think safety! lifted to Christchurch where he underwent about safety – a short delay can, and may, emergency surgery. The latest news is that he has feeling in his toes and the prognosis The Transport Worker September 2018 is positive at this time. KiwiRail, to their credit, stopped all work on the track for 24 hours and called meetings to discuss what members do when working around hi-rail diggers. The RMTU attended these meetings. In Christchurch one key point raised by members was that administrative and behav- ioural ‘solutions’ will not work if these rely on people not making mistakes. Systemic and engineering solutions, for example automatic cut-outs when people are close to a digger, are far more promising. Safety stop meeting at Midas Place to discuss the incident. 8 Appreciation & SOLIDAIRTY Obituary

(above) During the AGM of the Port Napier branch our National President Aubrey Wilkinson presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Trevor Miles recog- nising his 21 years as branch president. Trevor has been a staunch leader and stalwart of the branch and even though he is stepping aside as president he will remain an active member of the committee. Shawn Alexander Bates Thank you Trevor. 25/3/1974 – 18/7/2018 (left and below) It is important for the RMTU to provide solidarity support to other unions at times of struggle so that we have support during our N Wednesday, July 18, 2018 at disputes and struggles. Here RMTU members stand the age of 44 years, Shawn Bates in solidarity with our nurse and IRD comrades. died. Dearly loved by son (and Odaughter-in-law) Sidney and Gay Bates and his brother and brothers-in-law Cynthia, Robert, Slade and Sam Bates and numerous nieces and nephews. Messages to the Bates family can be placed online at Shawn's tribute page or posted to PO Box 44-176 Lower Hutt, 5040. In lieu of flowers, donations to the SPCA Wellington would be appreciated. Special thanks to Andrew Gain and the hospital staff who cared for Shawn who's support has been greatly appreciated. PORTS RETIREMENT PLAN ARE YOU A MEMBER? The Ports Retirement Plan is open to all port workers.

The plan has an external administrator and contributions are invested with four fund managers.

Download a copy of the Product Disclosure Statement from our website: www.portsretirement.org.nz The Transport Worker September 2018 Worker The Transport Issuer: Ports Retirement Trustee Limited H&S 9 Injury management update etting back to work after a that Work Aon add no value to the injury workplace injury can be a lengthy management process in her opinion. and painful process of rehabilita- Gtion. However, the injured worker should Returning to not bear the financial cost of treatment as work safely well. Warren Burrell who works as a Dunedin The RMTU has an agreed process with rail operator was left fuming after being both KiwiRail and Transdev Wellington given the run around by Work Aon in rela- known as the Health, Injury, Wellness and tion to accessing physiotherapy treatment Rehabilitation Programme (HIWMP). for his injured shoulder. Following an injury or illness the agree- Warren suffered a 22 mm tear in his ment requires a return to work plan be shoulder ligament from lifting a bull hook developed in consultation with the injured whilst coupling a train. To make matters worker, her/his Union rep, the medical worse he experienced a 'frozen shoulder' providers, ACC and the employer. which he describes as 10 out of 10 on "It's important that injured workers the pain scale and enough to put him on reach out for union support," says RMTU the ground in agony if his shoulder was H&S organiser Karen Fletcher. "People knocked. are vulnerable when they're injured and The rehabilitation and return to work they may not be aware of their full ACC process had been painful and slow and War- entitlements including access to medical ren credits the support of his workmates treatment." who helped him by lifting bull hooks and When there are medical restrictions that his manager (at the time) for supporting prevent a person from returning to their him to access medical support such as ad- previous work straight away, it can be a ditional physiotherapy. challenge to find alternative work that is However, his experience with KiwiRail's both medically appropriate and meaningful. third party provider, Work Aon, was less It can take some collective willingness and Lyn Heafield says the hardest thing about being than satisfactory due to his ACC case creative thinking to come up with alterna- off work with an injury is the isolation. manager's refusal to pay for additional tive work. It's important people don't feel physiotherapy costs, which had been rec- forgotten." the hardest thing about being off work with ommended by the Rail medical officer. Lyn Heafield a Wellington train man- an injury is the isolation and lack of com- Out of frustration Warren paid for ager, suffered a neck and shoulder injury munication from work. physio out of his own pocket. from a work accident in July 2017. She says Following a complaint, Warren was allocated a new case manager and is now receiving better support. KiwiRail is an accredited employer

under the ACC Partnership Programme. The Transport Worker September 2018 The programme allows KiwiRail to 'step into the shoes' of ACC and manage workers' ACC claims in return for a discount in their ACC levies. Work Aon is contracted by KiwiRail to deliver their injury management duties prescribed by the ACC legislation. "No one should have to pay for their own treatment for a work related injury," says RMTU general secretary Wayne Butson. "If members are being treated unfairly by Work Aon they should reach out to the Union for help," said Hazel Armstrong, a lawyer specialising in ACC law who adds 10 News

RMTU WOMEN

Ann Wells empty high stackers!! Health and safety is a big challenge for us in stevedoring Union role and why did you become and I have been elected H&S rep for involved? What has been a memora- the last couple of years and have just ble experience in your role as a delegate and branch sec? been voted in for another term. I am I first got involved with the Union as a looking forward to the challenges that women's delegate, attended a conference will bring, especially with the fatigue and then a ports forum and was hooked risk management policy that the port is really. The more involved I got the more I now undertaking to implement. realised that there is a huge need for peo- Why did you decide to become a ple to stand up and speak out for all those stevedore? people who don't have the confidence to do It was a pure case of needing an so for themselves – and that there is power extra job that I could fit in around the in the many sticking together to achieve business I was working and running at common goals. There is great camaraderie the time and stevedoring gave me the Photograph: Tim Cuff in being part of such a powerful group of flexibility I needed. not nice enough, not smart enough, not people and the women especially for me are pretty enough, not thin enough, not capable such an amazing diverse group of wahine What's the best part of the job? The people, they're great. There's enough, not strong enough. You are what toa and I love that. Along the way I became nothing like being part of a team that is you BELIEVE. So to change your life change involved in the collective bargaining process committed to getting the job done as ef- your BELIEF – you will be amazed at what and have continued to be involved with a ficiently and safely as possible. Everyone you actually are! great team of delegates from the branch treats everyone the same. I like being 'just Some days you just have to keep put- who continue to meet with management one of the guys' while having a laugh and ting one foot in front of the other to get on a monthly basis to continue talking and kidding each other around. I have a lot of through life and that is ok. Life isn't perfect resolving issues as they come up. I recently respect for how hard the guys and gals work all of the time and it isn't always about the took up the role of branch secretary and despite all the adverse conditions we have to big things, its also appreciating and finding have found that once you get involved with endure and, for the most part, with a smile value in the little things. When you feel like the Union it is a continual evolving process on their faces because we are all there till you are at the bottom that's positive because of learning and taking on more commitment the bitter end – lol! there's only one way through and that's UP. to the cause! So keep your chin up so you can see where Whats something that bugs you about you are going! Job title and what the job entails? your job? About happiness, I used to think, if I just I am a stevedore and have been at Port Night shifts! Nelson for coming up to seven years. As eve- have this or that I will be happy or if just ryone else does, I started out on the wharf What piece of advice would you give achieve this or that I will be happy. Then and progressed through the stevedore jobs your 21 year old self? one day I finally realised that happiness is to now driving the Full 50 T forklifts in the Ain't that a loaded question! Well the journey, not the destination. yard discharging and loading the vessels. first, do NOT believe people who tell And lastly everyday - LIVE - LOVE - Next challenge to get signed off on the you that 'you're not' – not good enough, LAUGH The Transport Worker September 2018 Worker The Transport Memorial 11 Fatality remembered Port N October 20 1999 the northbound express (Freight 938) collided with a stationary southbound express (Freight members O919) at Waipahi on the Main South Line. The locomotive engineer of 919, Graham Richard too! on’t let the name put you off, White, was fatally injured while the LE of 938 say MTU general secretary Wayne was seriously injured. Both were Dunedin based. Butson: “The New Zealand Rail- The Transport Accident Investigation Report ways Staff Welfare Trust is for our port 99-122 stated the "Causal factors included one D workers too!” locomotive engineer misunderstanding his track He says this includes their full range of warrant and the limited effectiveness of the ac- holiday homes. tion taken by the operator [TranzRail] and the He says some port workers have woken regulator to minimise the possibility of such to the opportunity but many more need to misunderstandings". “get on board”. General secretary Wayne Butson said at the “I recently spoke with a couple of port time: "That morning dawned as the proudest day members who had taken family holidays of my life to date as at the RMTU Conference that in Ohope and Wellington,” he said. “They day I was to assume the role as general secretary both told me they had fabulous holidays. of our great Union. The last thing I expected was to The Wellington group said the location get a telephone call advising me that the train crash was perfect - close to the city centre and had occurred and that an LE I knew well had been easy walking to all they could wish for.” killed. The accident confirmed my worst fears of the Meanwhile the other family told change to the track warrant system as it required Butson how they lazed and played around administrative controls to manage risk and those on the beach a “million miles from home”. controls are completely exposed to human error and He advises that RMTU port member other human factors." should make enquiries about joining. Next year will mark the 20 year anniversary of the “The advantages are many and the cost accident. The Otago and Southland branches have is minimal.” been requested to focus their Workers Memorial Day Look at the advert below to see where activities on an event at the memorial site at Waipahi. the holiday homes are located and for Mark your diaries and plans to attend. contact details.

Your Welfare Trust has a fantastic range of reasonably-priced holiday homes throughout New Zealand exclusively for members. Take a look at our locations. Auckland Christchurch Dunedin Gisborne Greytown HOLIDAYS The Transport Worker September 2018 Hanmer The Trust takes the worry out Kaikoura of your family’s basic medical Mount Maunganui & HEALTH costs. For a modest weekly Napier fee, 80% of the costs of basic Nelson New Plymouth medical expenses are covered Ohope including: GPs, some Orewa medical specialists, Paihia prescriptions, bereavement Picton benefit, welfare sick pay, birth, Queenstown ambulance, hearing aids, and Rotorua much more. Members may Taupo All RMTU members are eligible to join. Contact us to find out how. also apply to join an extended Wellington health insurance programme at Phone: 0800-806-444 E-mail: [email protected] Westport advantageous prices. Whitianga Website: nzrwelfare.co.nz Facebook: facebook.com/nzrwelfare 12 Fatigue takes centre stage among RMTU membership From the courts Unsafe rostering continues to be a safety "Unsafe rosters are the main contribu- risk at Lyttelton Port. A recent review of the tor to workplace fatigue," say RMTU H&S n Worksafe NZ recently prosecuted Michael rosters revealed container terminal staff organiser Karen Fletcher. Vining Contracting Limited for failing to working 18 shifts in a row without a day off. manage the risk of fatigue of a tractor driver In addition, the roster included the practice Port Nelson who had worked 200 hours in the fortnight known as 'rolling 8s'. A rolling eight roster fatigue workshop before his death. includes two eight hour shifts in a 24 hour n Wild Fish (NZ) Limited, a commercial period with an eight hour break in between. RMTU Nelson branch exec members Al- fishing company, who were fined $27,200 The rotating shift pattern requires workers to lan Addison-Saipe and Anne Wells organised following a prosecution by Maritime NZ for sleep at different times of the day and night the union event to discuss how workplace failing to manage the risk of fatigue for on- – at odds with their circadian cycle. This pat- fatigue affects people's health and safety. board staff causing a ship to run aground. tern prevents sleep from being as restorative The open invitation included operational The helmsman fell asleep whilst working as it needs to be. Fatigue-related impairment staff, roster coordinators and management. alone at night. He had had between one is cumulative and dose dependent, so the Members identified lack of sleep, rotat- and three hours sleep prior to the accident. longer a person keeps going without proper ing shift work, and shift uncertainty as causes sleep the worse their impairment becomes of fatigue. One member said: "Preparing for A snapshot of and the more likely they are to make a fatigue shift work and making sure you get enough Lyttelton Port related error. sleep in before starting the shift is difficult if you only get 12 hours notice that you'll be working the shift." When considering the impacts of fatigue, they said that fatigue caused slower reaction time, in- ability to judge risk and lower productivity. They agreed that being fatigued from shift work is "hard on relationships with family, especially if the kids have to remember to tip toe around during the day because mum or dad is trying to sleep". Members discussed strategies for managing fatigue risk including: The Transport Worker September 2018 Worker The Transport 13 Fatigue takes centre stage among RMTU membership n A safe rostering standard that provides for adequate breaks between and during shifts; n Onsite napping facilities (even a 15 minute nap can improve alertness and reduce risk); n A fatigue assessment tool for rosters such as FAID; n A system for monitoring fatigue data such as comparing scheduled work with actual hours of work; n A non-punitive and supportive system for reporting when a person is suffering from fatigue without fear of recrimination; and n A joint fatigue risk management committee of RMTU reps and management reps to monitor fatigue data and make recom- mendations for improvement. One member summed up the issue well by saying: "We are human beings, not robots. We need to find a balance between productivity and work/life balance." Participants tested their reaction time to see if they could catch a ruler dropped without warning.

The graph shows a sample of a roster from container terminal at Lyttelton port.

PHOTOGRAPHS: (left and below) Scenes from the fatigue workshop at Port Nelson. The Transport Worker September 2018 14 NEWS Is a DX upgrade on the cards? HE RMTU is reliably informed that KiwiRail is about to give approval for 15 DX locos to be modernised and upgraded. T"This will be great news for the industry and thoroughly welcomed by the Rail community," said RMTU general secretary Wayne Butson. "We have been urging for a long time that this class of loco merits an upgrade." The RMTU believes the overhaul will include: n New EFI 7FDL12 electronic fuel injected diesel engines; n The latest version of the Brightstar control system; n New engine control units and wiring harnesses; n A new high capacity fuel tank/battery box assembly; n Strengthened under frame and new 2MN maintenance- free dragboxes/drawgear; n New BHE engine oil cooler and piping kit to eliminate "E" and "chec" DX versions; if what we hear becomes a reality." n Electronic air brakes; Butson believes that the old hotplates and immersion heaters n Cab air conditioning; will be replaced by an integrated sink and storage unit containing n New or rebuilt cab with latest appliance features (aka DXR); and an electric jug, a microwave and fridge drawer together with a n Full locomotive overhaul/rewire. 230V outlet to charge phones and laptops. The RMTU has given its unqualified support for the project "Let's not forget the fiasco with the Chinese-built locos," said which it hopes will be seen on the tracks soon. Butson. "Frankly, anything made or even refurbished in New "The upgraded cabs will be especially welcomed," said Butson. Zealand, using New Zealand labour has to be better than those "Improving working conditions is one of the principles we stand will ever be." by and we believe KiwiRail have got the mixture right in this case

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A.M. Best, one of the oldest and most respected insurance ratings companies, has rated American Income Life as A+ (Superior) for overall Financial Strength (as of 6/15). The Transport Worker September 2018 Worker The Transport Around the branches 15

tures from the team teams. The recently announced changes this period includ- to the CEO and board positions may add HUTT WORKSHOPS ing people who have yet another delay however that's the way moved to other parts things go so we shall remain ever patient. HE year is rocketing along and after of the company and It was mooted that announcements would some years of waiting, a specific DL to new jobs outside of the 'railway family'. be made in August however as these notes locomotive was programmed-in and Of interest were some managers 'moving were being written, nothing had been Tcame to Hutt for a 'health check' against the on' including the CEO himself. That was forthcoming. documented standard. This has been a long time coming even though the pursuit by the union has been constant and relentless. It is hoped that this will herald an integrated One KiwiRail approach to the maintenance and overhaul of this fleet. We also attended to the one that recently suffered a mishap. Strict adherence to the spirit of HPHE continues to deliver on the promise. So much so that at a monthly briefing the CEO indicated he wanted another forty (yes 40!) projects kicked-off across the company. Reading between the lines, he would no doubt be trying to further breakdown the walls/divisions (read 'silos') that still plague The rebuilt and relocated rail weld at Hutt Workshops. the company. The CEO's restructuring somewhat of a shock as he's yet to complete We have lost a few staff since the last announcement earlier this year should go his (assumed) five year tenure. However, issue as people seek pastures greener, al- some way in achieving this although it's a it would appear that the Fletcher group of though one made a quick return to the fold long-term 'project' and we hope that suffi- companies needs someone like Peter to sort after a short period of only several weeks! cient time and energy will be expended in out their woes so no doubt a hopper full We strive to backfill all departures and to allowing the gains to be realised. Another of money was offered to induce him back. keep driving for apprentice intakes as the accolade under the auspices of HPHE is The site was recently audited both inter- engineering industry as a whole is short what has become the norm with various nally and by Telarc. By all accounts we came of people who can handle a hammer, spin visits by other government department out the other end quite well with minimal a spanner and complete the ever-present managers who want to see how big and areas for improvement although it appeared paperwork. successful improvements can made by fully that the delayed re-issue of the Mechanical The MECA roadshows in August were cooperating with staff, by sharing ideas and Code (M2000) raised a few eyebrows. well received and we expect that the pro- constructively solving problems within a The rail weld installation project con- posed changes will be ratified by the time consensus framework. It's not rocket sci- tinues with the ongoing erection of cranes you read these notes. ence but changing the culture does take (see attached photos). We are also still Until next time, be safe and look out for time. awaiting some much needed investment your mates. There have been quite a few depar- in equipment for our wheel sets and bogies

Goodbye Ganz Mavag! The Transport Worker September 2018

HINGS have been in commuter services with new timetables moving quickly and rostering in effect from July 15. This WELLINGTON RAIL around the Wel- means 20 minute services in off peak with Tlington rail scene, notably new zones and fares. Many thanks to our with significant changes hard working roster delegates. 16 Around the branches

At the Transdev Wellington operation peak). This has resulted in the redundancy wage round. there have been new intakes of part time of the full-time passenger operator role. We have had two fatalities on our net- passenger operators. (For those who are Some have taken up other jobs or simply work in the past three few months. not in the know, passenger operators - aka moved to part time hours while some have Our condolences to the families of the PassOps - assist the train managers with made the choice to retire, notably Steve deceased and to the crews involved with ticket and fair collection and with the safe Kappatos with over 40 years service, and emergency services. operation of the train.) Welcome to our Jim (Jimbo) Jennings another long time Additionally we have had three well- new passenger operator members. If you face around the depot. respected colleagues pass away in the last need anything just ask your friendly RMTU Outside of passenger operators we six weeks who are also missed: delegates and you shall be well received. have another notable retirement; from the Teeiva Metuariki with over 40 years One consequence of the new timetables Paekakariki depot: we farewell Dave Wad- service in his railway career as a shunter are that smaller but more regular services dilove (aka Father Ted). and train manager at depots in our region; have resulted in the greater concentration Also of note, the ladies' amenities have Shawn Bates, train manager; and of PassOps at the morning and evening peak finally been completed and the bargaining Ivan Kovacev a locomotive engineer. and fewer required during the day (inter- team are back in negotiations for the next Ka aroha to their loved ones.

MARLBOROUGH PORT

At the recent RMTU/Port Marlborough ratification meeting late July, Murray Burgess (R) workshop foreman and past branch president took the opportunity to present Brian Carver (L) an RMTU Loyalty Certificate. Brian is a marina supervisor at Port Marlborough, with 42 years' service amd union membership and is still smiling. Well done Brian.

aged to elect NELSON PORT a committee. We are now orker participation has been trying to get our theme for a non-negotiating everyone trained and up to year. This is a concept that has speed so that hopefully this Wbeen enacted by Parliament in the Health committee is functioning & Safety at Work Act 2015. It was a direct correctly. result of the Pike River tragedy where it was Whilst this has been go- found that the workers had no voice, even ing on we have also been though for years they had been question- struggling to have a realistic ing the mine's safety highlighting the fact fatigue risk management they thought it would blow – but no one system (FRMS) instituted. listened to them. Once again worker participa- Now in 2018 we are still struggling to tion has been minimal with have workers' voices heard. So far this year the process being driven we have pointed out that our H&S com- by managers who have no mittee was not meeting and had not been experience of the shift work functioning in accordance with the Act. It that port workers perform. Nelson branch chair Allan Addison-Saipe demonstrates

The Transport Worker September 2018 Worker The Transport has taken months but finally we have man- Notable that we have managed his cooking talents. 17 to get through another busy season without the issue. The only way forward can be a non- any real progress. They are picking and choosing what ap- punitive system that partners equal respon- PNL have invested a lot of time and plies to them without taking a broad view. sibility for workers and employers. Until we money in a new software-based labour al- It is important to contextualise the science can achieve acceptance of such an approach location system for stevedores. It is hoped and with close scrutiny it is obvious that it is feared that this initiative will fail and that this will elliminate a lot of human error there has not been much research around workers will continue to be at risk. and basic problems with the current manual an on-call, no-roster set up. In this scenario We thank Karen Fletcher for her visit to system. However, with PNL's insistence workers never know when they are working the port at the end of July and her hosting on only putting in guidelines for an FRMS or when their next day off is, sometimes of a really great fatigue workshop. It was and no hard and fast rules, it seems that having less than 24 hours' notice of a shift well worth while and we can only urge once again we will be presented with a soft and often being flipped between days and other branches to make use of Karen and option devoid of any real commitment to nights in a 24-hour period. Occasionally her excellent knowledge of H&S – and managing the risk. It has been good to see also doing a long stretch of days or nights especially fatigue. that PNL is slowly starting to accept some with a one-off alternate time shift thrown of the vast resource of science available on in the middle.

– the staffing levels Let's not forget this is in the off peak WEST COAST RAIL drop away we arrive season so with peak about to start and the at the situation that the Coastal Pacific and other services coming on ERE on the West Coast we are company finds itself stream one wonders how we are going to about to start the peak season and in now with big revenue losses caused by supply horse power to move these services. new rosters are being bought in cancellations, and our customers and staff It does not bode well looking into the short toH meet our customers' transport require- left wondering what is going on with this term future. ments. This has meant all the general freight company? Over on the networks side, things have services now run in the dead of night and Why do we have to be in a crisis before been pretty quiet of late with the main this has gone down like a lead balloon to senior management start asking questions? challenge being lots of inclement weather the people forced to work these ugly ros- In addition, in this part of the world we causing the gangs to spend plenty of time ters. But management tells us there is no have what appears to be a chronic shortage doing weather runs. Being a largely rural other way they can manage it. This may be the case but the roll out of these rosters has been a shocker with, at the time of writing, the new train plan two days away from starting and the Greymouth rail operators have not even got an agreed roster in place. So there is going to be fun and games with very little matching up. There have been a number of rosters presented but these have, for varied and valid reasons, been rejected. It is obvious we need more staff and yet management is trying to get more out of existing staff The Transport Worker September 2018 and in doing so they have hit the bottom Keith Teasdale and Graham Nichol hard at work in the new comms office in Greymouth. of the barrel. No more can be squeezed out of us and we are letting them know of locomotives to haul services. On occa- branch we also find ourselves dealing with loud and clear. sions managers have been forced to make roaming cattle in the rail corridor and on Talking to other staff members up and a decision to cancel a general goods train one occasion recently the guys had to deal down the country most areas seem to have so a coal train can run as they are worth with a cow stuck on a bridge! The lads did a the same problem of very tight rosters and more to the company. fantastic job of removing it without delaying low staff numbers. This is not a good situation to be in and any services but unfortunately the beast had This writer is aware of numerous oc- again our customers who use the general to be put down. To make matters worse, casions that trains have been cancelled or freight services are wondering what is going after assurances from the farmer that he parked up en route due to lack of manning. on? If we cannot offer a reliable service to would get on top of his fencing issues, the This is what you get when bean counters move their freight they will find someone following week a loaded freight train hit have too much influence in rostering who will. and killed a cow in exactly the same area! 18 Around the branches

The same gang had another harrowing and protest what many see as another kick in KiwiRail MECA report back meeting, to- frustrating job removing the carcass from the guts for Coasters with the implementa- gether with a comprehensive report back under the loco. tion of mining bans on conservation land. on the ROM 3 project. The branch took Rail on the Coast was recently with The fact is that if we are to transition away advantage of the occasion to hold an equally the opening of the new Taramakau Road from mining and other extractive industries well-attended AGM – the first in the South bridge. This means the last road-rail bridge in this part of the world we need a plan that Island we believe. It was really good to have in New Zealand is now exclusively a rail will ensure that well paid, highly skilled jobs so many members taking an interest in our bridge. It was a big occasion with over 5,000 are available to replace those that are lost Union. Our South Island organiser gave us people turning up for the opening which and that training and education is provided an update on the Auckland and Wellington was preceded with a convoy of nearly 300 to help people make the change. Minimum Transdev disputes and the Lyttelton Port mainly commercial vehicles taking a last wage work in the tourism and hospitality dispute. To our fellow members around crossing of the historic bridge. Protestors industries isn't going to cut it. the country, the Coast membership is with also took the opportunity to peacefully Finally, we had a well-attended RMTU- you – stay safe and stay united!

Todd Valster giving a report back on the RMTU/KiwiRail MECA negotiations to a well attended and attentive West Coast membership meeting

behalf of our members. peared in the mainline loco fleet as well. CANTERBURY RAIL Waltham Yard has Interesting times ahead. been in the spotlight We had a difficult episode at Waltham HE Canterbury rail branch has had with work being done on shunt locos in a after a squabble over a project that was an eventful few months. To begin sealed environment because of the presence unilaterally touted by management as 'High on a positive note we've had a of asbestos containing material. As members Performance High Engagement' when in number of new members join us as they T will know, the spectre of asbestos has ap- fact RMTRU involvement had been minimal. have been employed by KiwiRail – this is great news as they are bringing down the average age of the workforce. We've had people join us across the company – in signals, mechanical and a couple of new loco engineers. Welcome to the rail and RMTU family folks. In other news, the networks production manager for the upper South Island has left us after a very short tenure by rail standards. Management seems to be in a state of per- manent restructuring, which provides us with plenty of material for speculation over a cup of tea in the smoko room. We've had a few individual issues one of which sadly ended in a dismissal. Others have been resolved by agreement. This sort of work takes an enormous amount of a delegate's time and is largely done quietly and confidentially. It's often thankless work as well. So let's put that at least partially Waltham depot: Branch chair Graham Ealam and industrial council representative Luke James right and say a heartfelt thanks to all our listen as depot manager Duncan Ness explains asbestos safety measures to members. The Transport Worker September 2018 Worker The Transport delegates who put in time and effort on 19

This sort of thing is serious as many people are already sceptical about HPHE and it does nothing to build trust and credibility with rank and file members. Over in operations there has been a great deal of frustration over LE rostering which has generated a bit of activity. Hope- fully ROM 3, which will alleviate some of the pressure on members, should it be ratified. It is refreshing to see the fruit of the good work being done by our Union on highlighting the very real risk that fa- (above) RMTU members peruse the MECA offer at Christchurch Railway Station and (below) Q & A session for Todd Valster and KiwiRail employment relations manager Maryan Street at tigue represents. Increased awareness will Christchurch MECA report back meeting. mean better rostering if we are relentless in pressing our case. Elsewhere in operations we see our manager Rose Pettigrew is the poster girl for KiwiRail's careers advertis- ing. Good work Rose. If we're going to get more women into the industry we need to promote it using positive role models. Great to see that one of our two trainee LEs is a women as well. Hopefully a sign of things to come. Over at Toll our new delegate, Malcolm Ross, has been doing great work Sickness, accident and death The New Zealand Locomotive Engineers’ Sickness, Accident and Death Benefit Fund In the last 10 years 230 locomotive engineers had to retire due to medical reasons. They received a total payout of $4,737,097 from the above Fund. LEs who didn’t belong to the Fund and who were forced to retire did not receive anything. The Transport Worker September 2018 You could be next to miss out! For as little as $219 a year your future – or those of your next of kin – could be better assured. Contact: Attention LEs Debby Green, PO Box 813, Wellington Join this Fund now for Telephone: (04) 499–2066 Fax: (04) 471–0896 your own peace of mind [email protected] 20 Around the branches

at the bargaining table and around the members attending. By the time you read understand these conditions haven't just shed. He was part of the team that negoti- this we'll know if it's been ratified by the fallen out of the sky – they are there be- ated a settlement in the recent national national membership. cause we've stuck together and fought to collective bargaining that, at the time of We've been watching what's been going keep them so let's support other workers writing, is being voted on by the members. on in other sectors with interest. Several in their struggles for a fair deal. In addition to that he's had a couple of very of our members have attended rallies and As we head into spring and our busi- challenging disciplinary issues to deal with. pickets supporting nurses, public servants est time of year stay safe and try and take Thanks for your work Malcolm – the branch and fast food workers in recent weeks and some time for yourself and your family. appreciates it. it looks like the teachers are the next group We deal with a disproportionate number Like all KiwiRail members we've been we'll be supporting. of investigations and disciplinary issues attending MECA report back meetings. These workers have endured years of going into Christmas, many of which could The settlement is novel with a flat rate dol- stagnating wages and it's good to see them be avoided if people recognised when they lar increase for all members regardless of fighting. In rail we've been successful at are tired and under pressure and just took job and grade. We had three membership hanging onto terms and conditions that a little time out. Your Union will back you meetings in Christchurch and there was have become increasingly rare – penal rates if you're strung out and don't feel safe. a positive response from the majority of being the obvious example. Our members

PORT LYTTELTON a pattern of coercive building and the introduction of a new management practices port-wide surveillance system that was part ERE in Lyttelton we’re now in in which LPC has clearly of the operational upgrade in the container what is turning out to be a difficult departed from its previous past practice of control. Almost immediately we saw foot- period following an acrimonious a 'no blame policy'. This is particularly the age being used in disciplinary meetings andH bitter industrial dispute which only case in the container terminal where, since and all sorts of conclusions being drawn ended a few months ago. (See TTW June late 2017, members have been subjected to on the strength of those images without issue) On both sides there are people who a seemingly endless series of disciplinary the context being properly investigated. find it difficult to let go of the grievances measures largely, and unjustly, focusing Members must be aware that all aspects of that led to the dispute. Some managers on what are really performance issues. The their work is being watched and that the felt the need to pursue disciplinary actions change in attitude is clear in that manage- company will throw the procedure book at against some of our members who had ment appears to be bent on a punitive them if there is an apparent breach. Under been active in the dispute. These actions approach. In a couple of cases this has these circumstances it is better to do all have been vigorously fended off but not even led to the dismissal of the members your work by the book even if that takes without legal expense. Frankly, it is difficult concerned. These cases are currently the more time and impacts on productivity. If to rebuild trust and get back to business as subject of personal grievances. you are the subject of disciplinary action, usual under such circumstances. The hardening of LPC’s attitude coin- admit nothing as it will be held against Unfortunately, this is just a part of cides with the move to the new terminal you. As soon as you get a letter, contact

The Transport Worker September 2018 Worker The Transport Branch AGM shows support for striking teachers. 21 your delegate. continued belligerency towards our Union. facilitate a roster change for workshop staff. Despite the above, at the time of writing After the excellent workshops on fatigue This will be particularly challenging as this we have a semblance of peacetime reality management given by Phillipa Gander of roster change was a key claim by LPC dur- and in recent weeks we have been dealing Massey University earlier this year, a lot of ing bargaining. Even though we arrived at a with other issues: work has been going on behind the scenes roster that was mutually acceptable, it was Bargaining for the logistics officers' col- to develop a fatigue management standard. over the issue of remuneration, or rather lective agreement has restarted after being LPC should have a draft for us by the end of the assumption by LPC that they would get stalled in February due to the industrial August and we intend to hold a cross-union a change for next to nothing, that was a key dispute around the main port collective meeting to discuss it in early September. trigger to talks breaking down. Let’s hope agreement. We attempted to make a quick Fatigue is always a risk in 24/7 operations LPC takes a less positional approach this deal, but the company is adamant that a and has for far too long been ignored in time and that workshop staff are made a sen- roster change is necessary. Although LOs New Zealand. sible offer in exchange for a roster change. on the existing roster will not be affected, We are fortunate to have the dedicated To end on a positive note, it was great to all new full-time LOs will be. We are cur- support of Karen Fletcher, the RMTU’s na- see so many RMTU members at the nurse’s rently working through the roster proposal tional health and safety organiser, who has strike rally on July 12 at Christchurch Public to try and come up with something that is been actively working with Alisa Davies, LPC Hospital. What a fantastic sight it was to see acceptable to both parties and also adheres health and wellbeing specialist, to develop literally thousands of nurses at that event! to modern fatigue management practice. this standard. We all remember the huge support we got We’ve also initiated bargaining for the In the LPC workshop we are about to from the nurses during our dispute, so it inland port at Woolston and have a growing convene a working group to look at remu- was great that our branch president Andy membership at the second inland port out neration in the mechanical maintenance de- Kelly spoke so passionately in support of the at Rolleston. It’ll be interesting to see how partment. This was a key result of the recent nurses at the rally. Of all the speakers, he got the negotiations go given management’s bargaining and an agreement here would the biggest cheer. Proud to be RMTU.

TIMARU RAIL as well. Now we have in the form of empty wagons, about. At least a government that is pay scale 7 has been sorted – thanks and lthough it’s allegedly the quiet supposedly pro-rail it well done to all involved. And more good season we’ve had a bit going on would be good to see the rhetoric matched news is the arrival of new staff. here in Timaru Rail. Top story by an open cheque book and some real We have a couple of trainee RCOs, isA the impending shift by our KiwiRail op- investment in the locomotive and rolling Daniel and Darryl, who are being looked erations members from their current abode stock.Members took a keen interest in our after by our veterans Bernard and Gavin. across the road to the networks depot. This acting Prime Minister’s tenure while Ms Welcome lads – you’re part of the rail and is apparently because Toll is demanding Ardern was on parental leave. RMTU family. rent for premises that KiwiRail own but We’re very keen on provincial growth Finally, recognition to our hard working lease to Toll. Yes, you read that correctly. down here and once again we’re impatient networks members who are out in all weath- The new premises are in the final stages to see some results that match the rhetoric. ers over the winter making sure the track of being refurbished and members expect On more mundane, but no less important, is safe and well maintained in readiness for the very best. They are adamant they are matter – we seem to spend an inordinate the coming peak.Once again, stay healthy only moving if the accommodation is fit for amount of time and effort carting fresh air, and safe. purpose and preferably an improvement The Transport Worker September 2018 on what they are leaving behind.Collective bargaining has been very much in people’s minds. Both Toll and KiwiRail members have deals that are being ratified. The RMTU KiwiRail report back meeting was exceptionally well attended and most remarks were positive. By the time you read this you’ll know if that was the mood across the country as the ballot will have closed.In operations we are facing what seems like an increasingly difficult task running DSG locos which are older than many of our members. This is a challenge for the mechanical guys Timaru Rail members at the RMTU/KiwiRail MECA report back meeting. 22 Around the branches

addressed and made nine months into a more worker friendly TIMARU PORT good progress on our government. key claims around pay It was particularly interesting to hear T'S all change here in Timaru with and fatigue. Fatigue about the work being done by them to shipping being shifted around. Maersk is certainly the hot topic and it is gratify- promote a national port strategy a study of will now be arriving on Fridays and ing that the employer seems to share our which is underway. WednesdaysI which will stuff things up for members' view that we need to address it. Work on the reinvigoration of coastal those of us who enjoy weekend pursuits. We had our branch AGM on August 14 shipping is also in the wind. We hear that most shipping up the road in and had the pleasure of welcoming RMTU Thanks to all the officials and delegates Lyttelton is concentrated at weekends as national president Aubrey Wilkinson and who stood for office and thanks to all well. Oh, the joys of being a port worker! general secretary Wayne Butson. our members who supported them and We've been working hard in our qual- It's always good to see our most senior continue to support them throughout the ity marshalling negotiations and while elected officials and get their perspective year. we haven't quite sealed the deal we have on our Union, particularly given we are

Branch AGM 14th August.

to share in the branch Helen Kelly documentary, with a view to a OTAGO RAIL business - and the food group going along to the premiere when it and drink. Alas. . .if only comes out shortly. HE proposed KiwiRail/RMTU collec- the barman had been on time! A good reminder of Helen’s commit- tive agreement with its flat rate wage Guest speaker Brian Roper, who is a ment to the workers’ cause and her inspira- Tincrease of $1.63/hour in place of a politics lecturer at Otago University and tion to all around her! percentage wage claim has caused good dis- a member of the Tertiary Education Un- Branch representation and experience is cussion among our membership. If ratified ion, gave a passionate and very enjoyable getting even better with two new delegates there will be more money in total for mem- account of the history of strike action in elected, Mike Batt from KiwiRail freight bers due to the whole increase taking effect New Zealand putting the current action by operations and Mel Ryall from Dunedin at the start of the agreement, and far fewer nurses, teachers, public servants, bus driv- Railway's office and ticketing area. Mel was members earning under the living wage of ers, not forgetting of course the RMTU in also elected as a rep to the Women’s Na- $20.55 per hour. By the time you read this Wellington, Auckland and Lyttelton in their tional Conference, so there will be great we will know if this ground-breaking deal proper context. representation from Otago this year, three has been ratified. Wayne later pointed out that this strike in in total. Focus lately has been on planning the action was spearheaded by our Union Long standing Dunedin Railways del- branch AGM held on August 13. There was resisting clawbacks and ensuring safe train egate Lyall Kelpe has stepped down from an excellent turnout and the branch was staffing, so we can be proud that we led the the role and Julian Evans is the new delegate happy national president Aubrey Wilkinson, way. Members watched a film clip of an in- in that area. Much thanks to Lyall from the general secretary Wayne Butson and South terview with the director of the forthcoming branch for the tremendous work he has

The Transport Worker September 2018 Worker The Transport Island organiser John Kerr were all along 23 put in organising our membership over the Labour Party conference to be held in Dun- shops which is Labour Party policy; NIMT years. Lyall led by example, remaining cool edin in November. This is an opportunity electrification; rail ferry retention; worker and polite whatever the pressure but always for branch representatives to raise some representation on the KiwiRail board; – and demonstrating steely resolve in fighting for issues from recent contact with local MPS that's just for starters. fairness and justice at work. and ministers David Clark and Clare Curran, Until next time, ka kite, stay safe and Something coming up of note is the namely: the re-opening of Hillside Work- stay strong together!

Invercargill. We eagerly The "F" word has left it’s mark down await Dave's replace- here, but it appears there are some manag- SOUTHLAND RAIL ment, who it appears ers who refuse to acknowledge it. Hiding VER the last wee while we is so popular that they behind the ROM doesn’t protect staff from have seen a number of positive don’t want to let him go from his present fatigue. We have a number of staff who have changes taking place that have location! been disciplined for making mistakes that Obeen long awaited and, credit where it’s We also have seen some movement are fatigue-related and were told that they due, the "new broom" operations manager, in training of yard based staff to RCO and shouldn’t have come to work in the first who, being an ex LE and RCO, actually confirmation of an LE to be trained which place while they were “fatigued. knows a thing or two about the job, which is long overdue. If the rumours are correct, the Dunedin is refreshing, has been sweeping clean. Again, positive stuff. LEs are being called upon to run 939 to The fuel bay lighting is now at a level Some of the staff have been taking Invercargill on a Monday morning and are where it should have been when the facility advantage of the free gym membership expected to drive a car back to Dunedin, was first installed about five years ago, along which is another positive offering that"s all of this on the back of an A level, at risk with level ground conditions and sand bags been made available. It should also be shift. It would appear that the message neatly stored separately in an old 10 foot noted that there are some staff who haven’t from the CEO and board, and Zero Harm, container keeping the place clean and tidy. taken advantage of it and should, particu- that KiwiRail is striving to be the leading Heat pumps now keep everybody in the larly those who have just spent four weeks H&S company in the country, is not getting amenities building cozy during those frosty swanning around the Mediterranean on a through to junior management! mornings that have been hanging around cruise boat and have come back with a bit In light of all that the new management of late. No more arguing with the boss over of "extra baggage". structure is starting to take shape and we PPE and uniform is a welcome change, and The cows are about ready to start milk- watch with interest who will and won’t be by the time this goes to print the new book ing again which heralds a new round of high around, including who will be the new on room, housing all the bulletins, gas season roster negotiations with the usual CEO. monitors, the new info kiosk and other bits jostling, a new master train plan (MTP) Asbestos is once more in all our minds. and bobs, should be completed. which, if finalised, will see the disestablish- Easily solved. Replace the ageing and worn Congratulations to Matt Moynihan ment of the dreaded 934/927/924/925 shift, out South Island loco fleet! being appointed LE team leader and which caused no end of fatigue-related Keep safe, and if you are fatigued, re- Dave Murdoch LE being appointed OCM issues for the LEs. It would appear that Dr port it, stay home, or otherwise you could which he covers Timaru south, based in Phillipa Gander's report has had a positive find yourself well and truly "F"ed. influence on the design of the MTP. The Transport Worker September 2018

Southland RMTU members and industrial council reps listen attentively at the RMTU-KiwiRail MECA report back meeting. 24

Wairoa line nearly ready for action HE All Trains Stop Board (ATSB) tor Graeme Simpkin has prepared road is currently firmly planted at the access for the gang to replace two piles. mark 291.2 at the last bridge The Wairoa Line closed in 2012 after a Tbefore Wairoa then it’s just a short way storm and severe flooding and was moth- to mark 294.38 – the end of the line at balled by KiwiRail. Regional Economic Wairoa – and the line will be ready for Development Minister Shane Jones and its first train in nearly six years to run in his billions have changed their minds. early September. Hopefully KiwiRail can now convince the The Napier Structures Gang, compris- log truckers clogging the narrow highway ing Joe Gibson, Paul Cavanagh, Jason to transfer their loads to rail. It will be a Harmer and Peter Usherwood, has com- welcome relief for the regular road users pleted all safety critical work on previous and a nod of encouragement to rail. bridges which have all been signed off by “Maybe the Jones’ fund will even out the structures inspector. Once work is the funding imbalance between road and complete on the current bridge they can rail,” said RMTU general secretary Wayne carry the Stop Board to the end of the line. Butson. Their current project is to replace a well-rotted, hard wood beam at the north- Photographs illustrate the work required ern end of the bridge before heading back repairing the Wairoa line and readying it for to the south end to where digger opera- operation. The Transport Worker September 2018 Worker The Transport