In a cruel blow for those who book access taxis, more than a quarter of Adelaide’s drivers are set to go on strike tomorrow, just as the city hosts the world’s largest wheelchair rugby event.
The industrial action is scheduled to begin at 9am, impacting accessibility for vulnerable customers.
The South Australian government has expressed its disapproval of the planned strike action, labelling it “disappointing” and “poorly timed”.
Access cab drivers are protesting what they describe as deteriorating work conditions in the industry, claiming the situation is leading to drivers leaving the profession and causing extended wait times for passengers.
“The situation, it’s just getting worse and worse,” operator Hugo Siu said.
“That is why we have this stop-work meeting. Hopefully the government (will) work with us, listen to us and have a decent, proper earning for our drivers.”
Disability advocate Belle Owen acknowledged that the timing of the strike “makes sense (because) it gets attention”, but said it was disappointing.
“It’s unfortunate this action has fallen at that time,” she said.
The government has indicated its willingness to continue negotiations with the drivers.
“I’m really disappointed, I think this is the wrong time to do it,” Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison said.
“We want to keep talking with them. So I would express my disappointment with that.”
As a contingency, a loop service bus will be provided for wheelchair rugby players to mitigate potential transport issues.
The strike action may be averted if the transport minister agrees to meet with the drivers during their stop-work action at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre tomorrow.
This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.
