Hundreds of unionists and their supporters marched through Brisbane for the annual Labour Day on 4th May.
The march aimed for job security, the recession, better pay for teachers and nurses, paid parental leave and safer conditions for truck drivers, among other issues.
Queensland Teachers’ Union (QTU) used the march to launch a national advertising campaign highlighting their fight for teachers’ pay.
Hundreds of QTU members shouted, “Hardest workers, lowest paid, Queensland government should be ashamed” in their fight for a new pay deal.
Chris, who comes from QTU said that teachers were the lowest paid in the country.
“If teachers in QLD are not to be paid commensurate salaries to those in other states, QLD would lose teachers from the profession.”
In a speech, the Premier of Queensland Anna Bligh told the state’s teachers that an outcome would be reached in their controversial pay claims but only through negotiations, not strike action.
The recent deaths of construction workers has raised safety issues.
Members of the Transport Workers Union’s (TWU) carried a coffin, and led the Transport Workers Union’s (TWU) procession to draw attention to the road carnage affecting truck drivers.
David, who is a driver in Brisbane, said that they can’t take the present situation anymore.
“I hope the government could offer proper rates and better conditions for drivers.”
Other unions marching included the Queensland Nurses’ Union, Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance, the Maritime Union of Australia and the Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Workers’ Union.
On the afternoon of 4th May, families joined in the march with barbecues and celebrations continuing at the show grounds.
Related news: http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/05/04/2559837.htm
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