Last month, the decision to cancel all train services following a breakdown in negotiations between the NSW government and the Rail Tram and Bus Union led to mass commuter chaos with hundreds and thousands of people stranded across the city. A similar strike which was set to take place this week was averted after the NSW government and the RTBU reached an agreement to introduce fare free days for commuters, as an apology for February’s chaos.
Calls from the union to execute Fare Free Fridays or face industrial action led Transport for NSW to issue warnings for further delays that could last up to two weeks.
The strike action was due to take place on Friday, March 25. However, NSW Transport Minister David Elliott confirmed on Thursday that an agreement had been reached with the unions.
“I will continue to work with the RTBU to activate a proposal that will benefit the people of NSW in the weeks ahead,” Mr Elliott said.
“The Union and I are committed to offering fare free days that see commuters, their families and small businesses get the most economic benefit from public events,” he added.
Fixed days for fare free transport have not been announced yet and Mr Elliot warned that the recent weather conditions and COVID-related staffing issues could cause further delays. Watch this space for updates.