Quarry and concrete truck drivers strike for three days

Quarry and concrete truck drivers strike for three days over hours and pay

Approximately 20 Atlas Quarry workers and concrete truck drivers in the Brynderwyn hills are taking action over pay and hours over the next two days (started today).

Pay talks broke down on Tuesday 24th of July 2018 after 10 months of negotiations when Atlas Quarries Limited refused to move from their flat rate offer. The company is paying below market rate for concrete truck drivers and quarry workers, drivers in other industries are paid some two-three dollars an hour more.

Hours of work are also an issue. Workers are required to be available for some 88 hours a week, but only guaranteed half that.

FIRST Union Transport, Logistics and Manufacturing Division Secretary Jared Abbott says the company is trying to devalue its workers at the risk of their wellbeing and company safety. He says lowering rates can have ramifications for other businesses who’re trying to keep fair pay rates for their workers.

“When we see companies trying to tighten up bottom lines through holding wages down it never ends well.”

ENDS

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