Rail workers call for support for ACC changes

Rail & Maritime Transport Union

June 17 2008.

Rail workers call for support for ACC changes

The Rail & Maritime Transport Union (RMTU) says all political parties should support proposed changes to the ACC scheme to give better support to workers who suffer mental trauma from workplace incidents.

“We all know that trains are unforgiving when they encounter trespassers and vehicles on the rail corridor. Our members are reluctant spectators to the mayhem and carnage wrought on the human beings involved in these situations. They place the brakes into emergency and have only to watch what unfolds,”said RMTU General Secretary Wayne Butson.

“Locomotive Engineers, Remote Control Operators and other rail workers are powerless in these situations and what they observe can cost them their state of mind, health and jeopardise the financial wellbeing of their families.

“This is wrong. These situations are no different in reality to a worker who suffers a broken arm or leg, as they have suffered a severe injury.”

“And yet workers who suffer workplace trauma currently don’t receive ACC assistance with counselling or any other forms of help that enable them to return to work. This needs to change,” said Wayne Butson.

“The RMTU call on all political parties to support changes to ACC that would include cover for trauma, or explain why they are prepared to continue denying help to workers who through no fault of their own need it,” said Wayne Butson.

ENDS