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Senate Sides With TWU Against Foreign Truckies
The TWU has been fighting hard against the expansion of the 457 visa to the transport industry, and has won support from the Senate recently who has found the visa would be disastrous for our industry.
After hearing evidence from drivers and union officials, a Senate inquiry into Workforce Challenges gave bipartisan support for industry-based safety solutions.
The TWU is now urging Immigration Minister Kevin Andrews to accept the Senate findings, and accept that the 457 visa is not a solution to industry problems.
Truck Driver and father of 3, Paul Walsh, who gave evidence at the Inquiry said “its time the Federal Government stood up for working families.”
“This is a great step but now the Federal Government has to act on the report’s recommendations.”
The fight is not over, but this victory shows that by standing together we can win.
FOREIGN TRUCK DRIVERS DOWNRIGHT DANGEROUS
Lismore-based truck driver Trent Dafonseca has spoken out against the introduction of the temporary working visa – saying it will make it even harder for Aussies to find a job: “I’ve been looking for work in the transport industry for about 3 months now, and will be forced to leave Lismore to get a job. The 457 visa would make my situation even worse: Australian roads will become less safe, as unskilled and vulnerable drivers are left to their own devices.”
“Foreign drivers won’t know how to stand together against ruthless employers – meaning they’ll be exploited to work unrealistic and dangerous hours, this visa has to be stopped” said Mr Dafonseca.
IF YOU WANT TO JOIN THE FIGHT AGAINST FOREIGN TRUCKIES, CALL NAOMI ON 02 9912 0735
Tony Sheldon
TWU National/NSW Secretary
18 September 2007
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