THE TWU CAMPAIGNS FOR A FATALITY FREE CHRISTMAS

The Transport Workers' Union will be out in force campaigning for a fatality free Christmas.

According to Queensland Transport there have been 277 fatalities on Queensland Roads this year, 74 of which were heavy vehicle fatalities.

Data from Queensland Transport: Year to Date to Sunday, 14 December 2008

TWU Branch Secretary Hughie Williams said, "Over the last four years the State's heavy vehicle road toll has increased."

Mr Williams said, "We all, motorists, truck drivers and the Government need to do our bit to stop this appalling loss of life."

The TWU will release 74 black balloons as a crim reminder of the lives lost from heavy vehicle accidents and call on motorists to plan their trips, stop, revive, don't use mobile phones while driving and respect heavy vehicles on our roads this Christmas.

The TWU are also calling on the Queensland Government and the Federal Government to endorse the NTC's recommendations and quickly set up a national system of safe rates for owner drivers.

TWU Member and Owner Driver Frank Black said, "Drivers are driving longer hours on our roads just to make ends meet."

Mr Black said, "To make our roads safe truck drivers need to be paid a decent rate of pay, a rate above the cost of living."