RTA to cut 1000 jobs

The Public Service Association of NSW (PSA) is fighting a proposal by the Roads and Traffic Authority to cut up to 1000 jobs across the state.

On top of an existing review, both the Chief Executive and Minister Tripodi released statements on 29 September regarding an additional review of cost saving and cuts to Auslink Road funding to NSW by the Federal Government.

In relation to Finance Minister Costa's additional cost saving review, the PSA will be briefed by senior RTA officers on Tuesday 4 October 2005.

The PSA also hopes to be briefed by either the Minister's office or the RTA's Chief Executive concerning the Auslink cuts which target 300 jobs.

The PSA has written to Minister Tripodi seeking an urgent meeting to advise him that any cuts to jobs in the RTA are unacceptable as they will be cuts to vital frontline service positions.

"If any savings are to be made," said PSA Assistant General Secretary, Steve Turner, "then the question needs to be asked, 'Why does the Authority need 31 SES General Managers and more than an additional 800 consultants and contractors? Hefty savings could be achieved in these areas alone."

"Clearly, there is an urgent need for more staffing resources for RTA motor registries, Newcastle Call Centre, Road Safety Management and Heavy Vehicle regulation, not job cuts."

"The NSW public sector has no fat left to cut and the continued reference to only protecting frontline jobs by government spin doctors is wearing thin to all hard working staff providing services to the people of NSW."

Following the requested briefings, the PSA will be convening a delegates meeting to formulate an ongoing campaign against the cuts.

In the meantime, delegates have carried a resolution which calls on members to not perform additional work imposed upon them by the cuts. Quite simply, if any jobs are to be cut, work must also be deleted.