TASPORTS has received notice that its marine pilots intend to begin industrial action on Friday.
DCN understands the pilots, represented by the Australian Maritime Officers Union, have announced a ban on performing pilotage services at night for an unlimited period of time. This will commence at 0600 on Friday (19 January).
The pilots also said they would begin a ban on communication with agents and schedulers, except in the case of emergencies.
There are a number of exemptions to the bans, mostly related to safety and the movement of important shipments (such as petroleum and medical supplies).
TasPorts said it is in the process of negotiating enterprise agreements with the AMOU.
TasPorts acting CEO Phil Hoggett said the pilots were taking action with the aim of advancing their bargaining position.
“We are currently seeking clarification regarding the proposed scope of protected industrial action,” he told DCN.
“The current information we have is that the industrial action relates to bans on some pilot duties at night and on communications with agents and schedulers.
“Once known, TasPorts will further communicate any disruption to customers impacted, with a focus on alternative options and mitigating measures to minimise the impact wherever possible.
“Safe and reliable customer service is key to TasPorts’ operations and our aim is to ensure this is maintained.”
The protected industrial action planned for Friday is included in a list of stoppages and bans approved by the Fair Work Commission last month.
Fourteen pilots out of 15 who were eligible voted unanimously in favour of the stoppages and bans in the ballot, which closed on 12 January.
AMOU has been contacted for comment.
