Liberal MP Under Fire for Social Media Post Targeting Metro Staff
A Liberal Member of Parliament is facing widespread calls for an apology after sharing a photograph of Sydney Metro staff on social media, as part of an ongoing campaign against new union legislation. The incident has sparked significant backlash, with critics accusing the MP of hypocrisy and a politically motivated smear.
Kellyville MP Ray Williams posted a photo on Wednesday morning showing two staff members on a Sydney Metro service. He accompanied the image with the caption, “Special treat this evening.” His accompanying text continued, “2 Drivers on our driverless Metro train, who said the Minns Labor Government and their Union mates are not working for NSW?”
The post immediately drew sharp criticism on social media and from the Labor government. However, by Friday morning, the post remained online.
Transport Minister John Graham stated that the individuals in the photograph were “frontline metro workers catching a train home after a shift.” He added, “They don’t deserve to be shamed in a political hit job – even one that has backfired so spectacularly.”
Mr. Graham urged Mr. Williams to heed the concerns of his constituents, noting that “Ray Williams is being called out by his own constituents in large numbers and he should listen to them and take down this misguided post.”
Online commenters were quick to condemn Mr. Williams’ actions, with many accusing him of exhibiting “double standards” and urging him to “wake up to yourself.” One user, who commutes on the Metro daily, commented, “I get the Metro every day and these workers are clearly on their way home.” Another expressed their disapproval, stating, “I don’t think it’s right to post the faces of innocent Metro workers on social media just to push a political agenda.”
A significant point of contention for many was that the post was made while Parliament was still in session. One critic pointed out, “Parliament is currently still sitting. Did you get an early mark and leave parliament early today … you mustn’t be working for the Northwest!” Another questioned whether Mr. Williams had sought permission from the staff before taking and sharing their photograph.
The same commenter directly challenged Mr. Williams’ actions: “Hey Ray Williams MP are rail staff not permitted to catch a train home yet you can? Where’s the double standard there mate.”
The public reaction to the post was overwhelmingly negative, with one person remarking on the “ratio” of comments, suggesting the post was poorly received. They added, “Frontline workers heading home, and you thought it would be a good idea to post this?” A more light-hearted, yet pointed, observation came from another user who joked, “Did you also think growing up that your school teachers slept at the school every night?”
As of midday on Friday, the post had garnered 409 comments, reflecting the significant public engagement and disapproval.
This incident unfolds against the backdrop of the Labor government’s efforts to pass new union legislation. Opponents of this bill contend that it will grant unions access to company computer systems. This legislative push comes after a protracted dispute last year between the NSW government and the Rail, Tram, and Bus Union concerning staff pay, which was eventually resolved after months of negotiations.
The Sydney Metro, which operates without drivers, has also been a site of industrial action. During these disputes, the pay of drivers has frequently been cited as a key factor when evaluating claims for pay increases.
The office of NSW Liberal Leader Kellie Sloane was contacted for comment regarding the situation.
