Queensland Rail is urging unions to come back to the negotiating table and call off protected industrial action that saw approximately 180 rail services cancelled across the Ipswich/Rosewood and Cleveland lines this morning.
Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton said they had put forward a fair and reasonable offer including wage increases in line with Queensland Government Wages Policy.
"We urge the unions to continue negotiating with us in good faith, to stop this protected industrial action and to reconsider this offer," Ms Stapleton said.
"We are frustrated that this protected industrial action from some train controllers with the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) affected so many of our customers today."
Ms Stapleton rejected claims that union members had been locked out.
"That is absolutely not the case, we want people at work so we can deliver services for Queenslanders.
"What happens next is up to the unions. My door is open, we are ready to get a deal done.
"We have been negotiating with unions to update six Enterprise Agreements, covering approximately 5,600 employees, since January.
"Since negotiations began, the combined unions have sought more than 500 items in their log of claims, many of which far exceed community norms or what would be considered reasonable, such as pet bereavement leave and birthday leave, a 32-hour work week, huge superannuation contribution increases, and extra annual leave.
"Queensland Rail is committed to investing in our people to ensure wages are fair, reflect our service to customers and keep pace with the rising cost of living."
These disruptions are in addition to planned track closures from 3 - 26 April for major project works, including the Cross River Rail project, which will also be impacted by this industrial action.
Queensland Rail has received a further 30 notices of protected industrial action, which could further impact the rail network.
Customers can keep up to date on Queensland Rail's social media channels.
