Former operations manager charges company with fatigue-related offences
Former employee of Blenners Transport has brought a nearly $690,000 suit against the Queensland-based company for fatigue management charges.
Stephen Gleeson has reportedly filed for damages against the company in the Cairns District Court for health issues including, injuries and depression.
According to the Cairns Post, he is seeking medical expenses, compensation for the loss of past and future income, interest, and superannuation for breach of contract and negligence of the company.
Gleeson allegedly claims that company owner Les Blennerhassett encouraged drivers to breach fatigue regulations and drive for up to 14 hours a day.
This is Gleeson’s second case against Blenners.
In 2012, the Transport Workers Union (TWU) represented Gleeson at the Fair Work Commission in an unfair dismissal case against the company that saw him receive compensation later.
Two years later, Gleeson spoke on TV about drivers being encouraged to breach fatigue management guidelines and work long hours.
As a result, the Department of Transport and Main Roads’ (TMR) brought a case against Blennerhassett, his company and 45 drivers for fatigue-related charges.
While the court dropped the charges against Blennerhassett, the drivers were collectively fined around $65,000.
It led to the TWU to demand an inquiry into the magistrate’s decision, while the TMR brought in 50 new charges against the company.
Blenners Transport has not responded to a request for comment so far.