BHP has narrowly avoided strike action threatened by its iron ore train drivers after reaching an agreement with the Mining and Energy Union today.
BHP has narrowly avoided strike action threatened by its iron ore train drivers after reaching an agreement with the Mining and Energy Union.
The Pilbara train operators have called off the 24-hour stoppage planned to start at 12.01am after the union reached an in-principle agreement with BHP at a meeting today.
The now avoided industrial action would have brought BHP’s iron ore trains in the Pilbara to a standstill for 24 hours and slowed down some trains to just 30 kilometres an hour for seven days.
Under the proposed deal, employees would receive an increased base rate and a 20 per cent pay rise over four years alongside two $20,000 retention payments.
Rail and travel allowances and guarantees around rosters and flight assistance have also been included in the deal, which is expected to go to a vote in March.
“Members should be incredibly proud of themselves for setting a new industry standard for workers in the Pilbara,” MEU Western Australia district secretary Greg Busson said.
“We believe members have been offered a great deal that reflects the unity and determination members have shown and we encourage all members to vote yes to the proposed agreement.”
The new agreement follows a long winded industrial campagin to replace the old BHP Billiton Iron Ore Locomotive Drivers Agreement established in 2014.
Late last year, BHP put forward an improved offer, but it was voted down by members.
BHP Western Australia iron ore general manager rail Warren Wellbeloved said after more than two years of bargaining, they were pleased to have come to an in-principle agreement with the MEU without the need for protected industrial action.
"It is a great outcome for our WA train drivers, shunters and trainees," he said.
"We listened directly to their feedback and have tabled a revised offer that is comprehensive, generous and recognises their important contribution to our WA iron ore business.
"The offer will now go to the team to formally vote up in the coming weeks.”
