MORE than 1000 Queensland energy workers from Energex, Ergon Energy and Powerlink marched through Brisbane on 14 May 2008 to protest for better conditions and pay.
While the key issue for the Electrical Trades Union workers was for a pay rise, there was also a concern regarding the condition of the power system, which could have implications on the safety for workers and the community.
The protestors claim Queensland’s electricity grid and infrastructure have been allowed to run down over many years. According to the unions, the corporations refused to carry out the proper maintenance needed for an extended period of time, leading to various safety issues.
The protest rally in the city was part of a state-wide strike action by members of the various workers unions. Up to 5000 workers were involved in strikes for 24 hours in Queensland.
The workers also threatened to picket the state Labor conference, and refuse to repair equipment in the event of an electricity outage affecting the event.
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