Unions to take legal action over energy privatisation

Unions NSW said it will take action in the Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) in response to the state government’s move to privatise electricity generators.

The union group said, “The workplace agreement covering electricity generator workers stipulates that the workforce must be consulted in the case of major workplace changes.” It said there has been no consultation with workers to date.

By taking action in the IRC, Unions NSW hopes to force the NSW Government to consult with workers impacted by the impending sale.

“The workers affected by the sell-off have the right to consultation, and it’s outrageous we need to take action in the Industrial Relations Commission to achieve something so basic,” said Unions NSW Secretary Mark Lennon.

“There’s swelling anger among the ranks of energy workers and the government must come to the table and consult with them.”

Union groups argue that the sell-off will cost jobs and result in higher energy prices and unreliable power supply.

In addition, Unions NSW claims the government is breaking its election promise not to privatise electricity.