A territorial brawl within the ranks of train unions is now threatening the resolution of their protracted and disruptive pursuit of a pay rise that has played havoc with Sydney’s train system and damaged the NSW economy for so many months that any lingering sympathy for their cause has evaporated and turned into anger.

The powerful Electrical Trades Union has baulked at signing an agreement that most believed would finally end the strikes and other actions that, since last September, have caused considerable anxiety for people who rely on rail services not just to get to work but to keep medical appointments. The union campaign not only threatened major events, including New Year’s Eve, but in some instances, saw passengers left on crowded platforms or in packed carriages for hours........

© The Sydney Morning Herald