Qld power workers set to strike

Tag : power Supplies

Queenslanders could face power blackouts this week as electricityworkers mount a state-wide strike over pay and conditions.
The 48-hour stoppage from Wednesday morning is expected to involveabout 4,000 workers from state-owned electricity companies ErgonEnergy, Powerlink and Energex.
Other trade union members, including the Australian ManufacturingWorkers Union (AMWU) and the Australian Services Union (ASU) areexpected to walk off the job in support.
Union officials said there would be enough staff to cover emergencysituations but consumers could expect long delays in restoringpower if supplies were lost.
Electrical Trades Union (ETU) assistant state secretary PeterSimpson said the strike could cause lengthy power cuts of up to 48hours.
The stoppage was being held as an escalation of a five-monthdispute with the state government over stalled pay talks.
"It is time to escalate matters," Mr Simpson told the Sunday Mailnewspaper.
"The government is running this dispute now.
"They have taken an extreme hard line in negotiations."
Mr Simpson was being sought for further comment.
But Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said the strike could put publicsafety at risk and cut power supplies to homes and businesses.
"It is very disturbing to hear what they are now proposing ... thissort of behaviour does not help anyone," Mr Wilson said.
Power workers have already staged 24-hour strikes this year.