Commuters urged to respect workers during timetable change

Media release, 27 November 2017

Public transport workers are urging passengers to try to keep their cool and show respect for workers during the introduction of the new transport timetable.

The new timetable, released yesterday, will face its first serious test during peak hour travel this morning and this afternoon.

Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) NSW Secretary, Alex Claassens, said workers often bear the brunt of passenger frustration, but said it’s important to remember workers are feeling the pressures of the change too.

“It’s important to remember that we’re all in the same boat. It’s a difficult time for everyone,” Mr Claassens said.

“We get it. Workers often have frustrations too, but it’s important not to take those frustrations out on those who are just trying to do their job.

“The drivers and other workers you’ll see on the ground aren’t responsible for timetables – in fact, we weren’t consulted about the changes at all.

“It’s all new to the workers too, and we’ll be out there today just trying to do our job as best we can.

“We’d like to thank passengers for showing patience and respect for the workers during this difficult time. Everyone is hoping things run smoothly today and we can get everyone where they need to get on time.”