Despite having over seven thousand distribution defects on the network that need maintenance and repairs, SA Power Networks have stood down powerline workers and apprentices without pay.
Some of the defects include repairs required to the aging infrastructure that pose a bushfire risk. Meanwhile South Australians are left waiting 3-4 months to have power connected to their properties and businesses due to a backlog.
In response to industrial action taken by workers, SA Power Networks have taken the bizarre step of standing workers down who are not taking industrial action. Citing that "We have not been able to find any duties for you to be usefully employed on this day despite our best efforts". This has occurred two days in a row now, leaving vital maintenance and repair work on a waiting list to be done.
The industrial action comes amidst a long protracted 2-year enterprise agreement negotiation, which saw SA Power Networks 'cease bargaining' for several months and then attempt to cut new employees' wages by 20%. This latest attack on workers has left the South Australian public paying the ultimate price for this latest display of corporate greed.
Quotes attributed to CEPU SA Assistant Secretary, Jess Rogers,
"This shameful decision by SA Power Networks to withhold work not only has a significant impact on the workers and their families, but on all South Australians.
Customers are the ones left waiting without power, while SA Power Networks attempts to increase the profits for overseas shareholders.
SA Power Networks is just another multi-National company that puts profits before people."
