As Metro prepares to roll out a new and reduced timetable across Hobart, mechanics are too claiming they as paid poorly as the drivers.
Starting Monday, Metro plans to indefinitely cut around one in eight of its greater Hobart weekday services due to an ongoing driver shortage.
FULL LIST: All 180 suspended Hobart bus routes
The mechanics union say the Metro-sector is experiencing significant worker turnover, with a third of positions vacant and industrial action now on the cards.
The union says workers feel undervalued and disrespected, contributing to high turnover.
Metro CEO Katie Cooper’s claim that pay isn’t a reason for leaving is disputed by both the drivers and mechanics unions.
The unions argue that wages are the main issue, as they could earn better elsewhere in the private sector.
A spokesperson from Metro defended the company’s position, saying that they’ve offered a fair and affordable deal.
Metro bus cuts could impact Hobart’s working class the hardest
Disadvantaged ‘working-class’ areas around Hobart, particularly in the northern suburbs and the eastern shore, are set to be hit the hardest by the recent Metro bus service cuts, according to Labor.
The suspension of some services has sparked concerns for residents who rely on public transportation daily.
Shadow Minister for Community Services and Development, Sarah Lovell, says a number complaints have been raised over the potential disturbances these cuts might cause.
New data reveals 64 services to Glenorchy and surrounding Northern suburbs will be cancelled from Monday to Thursday. Additionally, Fridays will see a reduction of 80 services.
Residents in Clarendon Vale, Risdon Vale, and Bridgewater are also expected to experience service reductions.
“We know people living in disadvantaged areas need all the support they can get to participate in the community, and the decision to cut services completely overlooks that,” said Shadow Minister Sarah Lovell.
The service reductions come after months of significant daily service cancellations, which Metro are blaming on driver shortages.
Metro CEO Katie Cooper says the cuts ‘aren’t a decision they’re taking lightly’ and that the timetable changes are designed to minimise impact on commuters.
