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Queensland Rail warns of potential 'extensive impacts' to services

Thursday, 27 Oct 2016 22:10:07 | Chris O'Brien

Queensland Rail users have been warned of "extensive impacts" to services today. (Facebook: Queensland Rail)

Queensland Rail (QR) has warned south-east commuters to expect disruptions to services today as the network continues to adjust to the interim timetable put in place to deal with a driver shortage.

The shortage, which followed the opening of the Redcliffe Peninsula line and caused services cancellations, led to the resignations of Queensland Rail CEO Helen Gluer and chairman Michael Klug yesterday.

Acting chief operations officer Martin Ryan warned passengers of potential "extensive impacts" to services today.

"[The interim timetable] has gone well with improved on-time running the last two days, but I want to prepare customers that we may face further service alterations today," he said.

"In the event of a higher than usual level of unplanned leave, there may be extensive impacts on service delivery.

"We have planned alternative bus services across parts of the network if this eventuates."

He did not elaborate on the reasons for unplanned leave.

But a QR spokeswoman told the ABC it related to an abundance of caution.

She said all rosters had been filled but they did not account for any drivers calling in sick.

Commuters have been advised to check the TransLink website for information on timetable changes.

Minister is at fault: Opposition

The State Opposition said three QR personnel had taken the fall over the transport debacle and the Transport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe should also resign.

But the LNP's transport spokesman, Andrew Powell, refused to acknowledge whether the current problems had been exacerbated because driver trainers were laid off when the LNP was in government.

"The union is claiming there was some sort of directive from the shareholding ministers. I refute that categorically," he said.

"No direction was given by the shareholding ministers."

We have not delivered: outgoing CEO

In her farewell message to staff, Ms Gluer acknowledged the timetabling failure, but said safety was the most important thing.

"My decision to resign was not taken lightly," she said.

"Clearly we have not delivered in the last three weeks of our operation, which is disappointing given the high level of performance that we pride ourselves on and our commitment to delivering a first-class railway.

"I have no doubt how hard so many of you are trying to deliver a solution to our current resourcing issues.

"When all is said and done we must remember safety is the most important thing, so please continue to look after each other."

Mr Klug also highlighted safety in his letter to staff.

"I am incredibly impressed by the professionalism and commitment the team demonstrates to their work and to our customers," he said.

"I hope that you will all continue to work together and demonstrate Queensland Rail's commitment to Safety First Always."

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