Connex's boss is blaming the train drivers' union for 80 per cent of the cancellations that have stricken Melbourne's rail system in recent days.
The rail operator's latest excuse for its failing network, made by executive chairman Jonathan Metcalfe, has prompted union calls for him to "be deported back to England".
Earlier this month, Mr Metcalfe blamed heat - rather than the union - for a string of Connex cancellations, describing 25 degrees as a "very hot day".
The Melbourne rail network has been plagued by mass cancellations in recent weeks, with at least 150 train services scrapped yesterday.
Railway lines buckled and train carriage air conditioners failed as the Connex system went into meltdown on a day of 43 degree-plus heat.
Already, 46 suburban services and 16 V/Line trains have been cancelled this morning.