71 people faced with uncertainty as Newcastle train call centre closes

The Rail Tram and Bus Union of NSW is condemning the decision of the NSW Liberal Government for the closure of Newcastle based NSW Trains call centre where 71 people are employed.

NSW RTBU Secretary Alex Claassens said the closure showed a disregard for 71 people and their livelihoods, saying that the union would fight for their member’s conditions and entitlements to be protected, and the provision of a proper consultation process for the employees regarding their future.

“This is another kick in the teeth for the people of the Hunter by an out of touch Liberal government, which is taking more jobs from the community.”

“Plunging 71 people into this kind of uncertainty is unacceptable, and quite frankly ruthless, the government needs to do better to conduct a proper consultation process to help ensure a clear future for these people.”

“Abruptly closing down a centre that has been providing excellent service to regional rail and coach customers for more than 10 years without offering security for workers conditions and entitlements and their future is just plain rough.”

 “It’s a disgrace, many people will be out of a job, or worse if they want a job they will have to compete for a position at a lower wage rate.”

“These people have been given the option of competing for a job with lower income, taking a redundancy cheque, or joining an employment pool for NSW Trains which may land them a job that requires them to relocate – the options aren’t great,” Mr Claassens said.