Queensland Not for Sale - Update.

CIRCULAR: 60-09 Ref: Queensland Not For Sale - Update

16 October 2009

Dear Traincrew

The AFULE along with the ETU, QSU, RTBU and MUA have been participating in negotiations with the Government about the proposed asset sale.  These negotiations are being facilitated by the ex Governor of the Reserve Bank, Bernie Fraser.

The Unions have also engaged the services of Mr Bob Walker, who is the Professor of Accounting at the University of Sydney and former Chairman of the Council on the cost of the Government.

During the negotiations, the Government thus far, have not moved off their position to continue with the sale.

When questioned on what parts of QR they intend to sell, their response was that the Governments’ position has always been as follows;

• The Coal Freight business above and below rail is up for sale
• Regional Freight above rail is being scoped for a possible sell off
• The ARG business, both in Western Australia and Queensland is being scoped for a possible sell off
• The Workshops businesses are being scoped for a possible sell off
• QR Passenger Citytrain and long distance business is not for sale
• Regional Freight below rail is not for sale

As you can see, most employees will be affected if the Labor Government continues with the wholesale sell off of QR.

Although, there are 2 more days set down for negotiations being Monday 19 October and Thursday 20 October 2009, there seems to be slim chance at this time of the parties reaching a resolution.

Further information will be circulated when at hand.

Yours fraternally

GREG SMITH

STATE SECRETARY