Strike by tug crews at Fremantle and Bunbury

14/8/96

The 24-hour strike by tug crews at Fremantle and Bunbury over a 30 per cent pay claim was an act of industrial and economic vandalism, Transport Minister Eric Charlton said.

The strike involved tug crews employed by Adsteam and affected four ships at Fremantle and one at Bunbury. The strike finished at 1 am today.

"This irresponsible action by union members, who are already paid well in excess of other workers, demonstrates the need for waterfront reform. The best way for this to occur is for competition to be encouraged in all port operations, especially towage," Mr Charlton said.

"The State Government intends to licence towage at Fremantle and the legislation to give the necessary powers to the Fremantle Port Authority will be expedited in light of this strike.

"Tenders for towage at the Port of Fremantle will then be called for, hopefully some time in 1997. I expect this to be a competitive situation as towage is very profitable, however I put potential tenderers on notice now that the ability to provide continuity of operations will be essential," Mr Charlton said.

"If the company tendering to provide towage cannot guarantee continuity then their bid will be excluded.

"Exporters and importers have been held to ransom for long enough by the Maritime Union of Australia and if they persist with 30 per cent pay claims and stoppages of this nature then I call on all sectors of the community to resist this selfish behaviour.

"In this day and age international competitiveness is essential for a trading nation like Australia. The quick passage through the Senate of the industrial relations reforms proposed by the Federal Coalition Government is vital if we are to maximise our economic potential."

Media Contact: Sally Squires 321 7333 Greg Trenberth 321 7333