Hamilton buses out of service today while drivers take action for fair pay

Approximately 30 drivers at Pavlovich Coachlines in Hamilton are taking strike action today as the bus company refuses to pay fair wages to the drivers who keep the company running.

“Pavlovich Coachlines is riding roughshod over its drivers who haven’t received a pay increase in more than two years,” said FIRST Union organiser Tony Stevens.

“Pavlovich drivers have asked for very modest pay increase to help keep up with sky-rocketing housing costs in the region. The wealthy company has continued to stall negotiations and push drivers to the back of the bus.”

“The company wants to hire and fire drivers at will and, despite dragging out bargaining for more than a year, is refusing to release back pay for the drivers,” said Stevens.

“For a company that aims to deliver its passengers on time they’re doing a terrible job of delivering fair conditions to their drivers.

“FIRST Union was willing to attend mediation to reach an agreement but Pavlovich refused to bargain in good faith.”

“The drivers have been left with no alternative than to stop the buses and show Pavlovich that the company needs to starting treating it’s workers with respect.”

Approximately 30 workers will picket outside the Hamilton Transport Centre on Anglesea St, Hamilton CBD, from 7:30am today.

ENDS

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