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Consultation – Replacement of Dwyer Agreement

Jul 1, 2015Bulletins

Bulletin 34 –

To: RTBU Signaller Sub-Division Members

The Executive of the RTBU Signallers Sub-Division have been in preliminary discussions with Sydney Trains with regards to the future of signalling. This would require replacing the Dwyer Agreement with another document that would be legally binding on Sydney Trains.

The discussions have been about addressing the impact on lower grade signallers with the number of smaller boxes that are closing. This has a roll- on effect which is lower grade signallers having minimal positions available now and potentially no positions remaining as we move into the future.

As it currently stands under the Dwyer Agreement, Signallers in a lower grade have no opportunity to act up or apply for a higher graded position due to the stringent requirements set out under the Dwyer Agreement. We all acknowledge that the Dwyer Agreement has stood us in good form over the years. However, the Dwyer Agreement is reliant on smaller boxes being operational for it to work and this is not practical now.

The proposed option that has been discussed between the Signallers Sub-Division representatives and Sydney Trains can be summarised below:

  1. Dwyer Agreement replaced with the Pathways to Signalling.
  2. Signalling will be treated as a traineeship which at the successful conclusion will result in a Certificate III in Rail Signalling TL132611.
  3. Recognition for prior learning.
  4. Competency Assurance training which will include the LTAs. It is noted that LTAs have different timeframes depending on the panel being learnt.
  5. Classroom training at Petersham Training College.
  6. All signallers will be required to complete continuous training seminars every six (6) months.
  7. The use of new rail signalling simulations for training and assessment. Simulations will be developed by Daniel Madden.
  8. Proposed process for recruitment for external applicants. Please note this will not be required for many years but as this is a new pathway that will be in place for many years this has to be considered when making these plans.

Although there is much more to it, this is the starting base of what the new pathways will look like. This is now at the stage where the RTBU and Sydney Trains believe this should come out to the membership for consultation and feedback. We truly need your guidance in relation to this vital subject. There will be a number of mass meetings with RTBU representatives and Sydney Trains to be held at numerous locations. The times, dates and locations of these meetings are:

Date Location Time
Monday 6th July RTBU Delegates Workshop 1.35pm   – 2.35pm
Tuesday 7th July Sydenham Signal Complex 12.35 – 1.35pm; 1.35pm – 2.35pm
Wednesday 8th July Wollongong Signal Complex 1.00pm – 2.00pm
Thursday 9th July Sydney Signal Complex 12.35pm – 1.35pm
Friday 10th July Strathfield and Homebush 1.00pm – 2.00pm; 2.00pm – 3.00pm
13th July – 17th July North and West visits Times to be confirmed.

 

If you have any further questions please contact your local delegate or the RTBU office.

Issued by: Authorised by:
Helen Bellette

Organiser

Alex Claassens

Branch Secretary

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