Why an extraordinary demand from the rail union could cost taxpayers MILLIONS and disrupt services
A rail union is demanding the NSW government modify Sydney Metro trains to have staff cabins, despite the service being driverless.
The demand is part of ongoing enterprise agreement negotiations between the Rail, Train and Bus Union (RTBU) and Metro Trains Sydney (MTS).
The RTBU has insisted cabins on the driverless Metro will keep workers safe in the face of escalating violence on the rail network.
'Cabins are needed on board for the safety of staff - they are not 'driver's cabins' as there are no drivers on Metro trains,' a spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia.
'As incidents of anti-social behaviour and assaults have increased across the rail network, workers need a safe space aboard the train to ensure both their safety and the safety of passengers.
'There has been no discussion with the operator or Transport for NSW regarding the infrastructure cost to install the cabins.'
The Opposition has lashed the request, with NSW Liberal Deputy Leader and Shadow Transport Minister Natalie Ward describing the cabins as a 'union stitch-up'.
'The RTBU leadership have already torpedoed the train network, they need to keep their hands off the Metro,' Ms Ward said in a statement to Daily Mail Australia.
'The Government should rule out yet another union stitch-up that will cost taxpayers millions of dollars and disrupt commuter services.'
Ms Ward also questioned the practicality of retrofitting the advanced rail system.
'We already have a driver on the driverless Metro, retro-fitting cabins onto these state-of-the-art trains is pathetic and an example of why Sydney is losing momentum under the Government,' she said.
In a bulletin issued to members this week, the RTBU said the proposal is 'being actively considered' by MTS.
'This is a very large piece of work and will involve negotiating with Transport for NSW, Sydney Metro and the regulator ONRSR as it involves altering approved infrastructure,' the union stated.
NSW Transport Minister John Graham told Daily Mail Australia the government would 'not be supporting the changes'.
'Metro trains are driverless and they will remain so,' he added.
Other requests from the RTBU include body-worn cameras for staff, pressure mats, and designated staff seating at Metro stations.
Industrial action has plagued the Sydney Metro in recent months and is being blamed for delays to the under-construction Sydenham to Bankstown extension.
Disruptions on the line are estimated to have resulted in 130 days lost to industrial action, with the project now delayed from its original opening planned for this year.
A union stand off between the state government and Sydney Trains saw major delays and headaches for travellers earlier this year.
Industrial action on Sydney Trains has been suspended until July 1, following a ruling by the Fair Work Commission.
The RTBU remain in negotiations with the MTS, and are set to meet again on May 14.
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