Train pain ahead of New Year’s Eve fireworks threat

Sydney: Everyone seems to be on edge about the New Year’s Eve fireworks. The rail union, however, is the only group not sweating it. With industrial action and track work, train services are already feeling the pinch during this festive season.

This weekend is crucial for last-minute shoppers, but Australia’s busiest urban rail network is in chaos. Transport for NSW has warned that the ongoing industrial action is limiting train operations, and essential track work is forcing commuters onto buses when they can find drivers.

The NSW government and rail operators are crossing their fingers for a Christmas Eve decision from the Fair Work Commission to suspend the strikes. The Rail, Tram and Bus Union believes the commission will back them, calling the threat of canceled fireworks a weak tactic by the government.

Union secretary Toby Warnes expressed frustration, saying, “It’s not fair, it’s all done for an ulterior motive.” He reassured that any impact on New Year’s Eve would be minimal, depending on how many services Sydney Trains decides to run.

Warnes emphasized that if the government would just sit down and negotiate, there wouldn’t be any disruptions on New Year’s Eve. But Transport Minister Jo Haylen pointed out that the union’s idea of negotiation seems to be just getting their demands met.

The uncertainty is a real headache for businesses, according to Business Sydney director Paul Nicolaou. He mentioned that hopes for a bustling Christmas season are fading fast, and the potential cancellation of the fireworks could be devastating for many businesses.

Business NSW chief executive Daniel Hunter warned that losing the fireworks would be a disaster for the economy and the state’s reputation. He said, “It would take us years to recover from this.”

Both Nicolaou and Hunter urged the union to compromise on their demands for significant pay raises. But Warnes pushed back, saying the government is just trying to scare people instead of resolving the issue.

Police Commissioner Karen Webb even hinted that she might recommend canceling the fireworks due to safety concerns. Meanwhile, Sydney Mayor Clover Moore reassured everyone that the city is doing everything possible to ensure the fireworks go off without a hitch.