Union action disrupts NRMA Road Service

The National Roads and Motorists' Association Limited (NRMA) has criticized the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU) for going ahead with unauthorized industrial action tomorrow, inconveniencing thousands of motorists and NRMA members.
NRMA CEO, Mr Rob Carter, said the union was not being fair
dinkum by refusing any of the offers made by NRMA over the weekend
that would have seen the action averted."In accordance with a longstanding agreement between the union
and myself I cannot engage in negotiations under the threat of
industrial action. Given that situation I offered three solutions:
firstly to defer the action and to meet to discuss matters;
secondly to have the matter heard in the Industrial Relations
Commission and finally to have paid split mass meetings in order to
minimise disruption to NRMA members." Mr Carter said."The AMWU rejected all of these and in so doing has demonstrated
a lack of consideration for patrols and our members."Mr Carter reassured members he was doing everything possible to
resolve the situation so that services could be restored as soon as
possible."I'm extremely disappointed our services are being disrupted by
this union action."Limited urgent services will be available for children locked in
cars. Tow trucks will be sent automatically to all breakdowns in
hazardous locations and motorways and at the customer's request for
other breakdowns. NRMA's Battery and Car Electrics services, and
areas outside Sydney, Newcastle, Canberra and Wollongong will
remain unaffected.Mr Carter said the very late notification by the union of the
action, and the introduction of new issues, compromised NRMA's
ability to discuss and consider the matters fully."The union is clearly trying to maximize the impact of the
action with tomorrow being the first day of school holidays and the
company facing a Special General Meeting on October 17."Mr Carter said he admired the work patrols do 24 hours a day,
seven days a week and would support those who returned to work to
meet the needs of our members."Those who return to work will be paid. For those who must go to
the meeting I personally authorize the use of their vans but urge
them to go to work before and after the meeting. They have my full
support to do so," Mr Carter said."My main concern in all of this is the impact this union action
is having on our members and motorists and on behalf of the company
I apologise," Mr Carter said.