Dialogue continues between Bus Company and Unions

Dialogue continues between Bus Company and Unions

Dialogue continues between the Transportation Auckland Corporation (TACL) & Cityline New Zealand Limited and the Auckland Combined Unions with both parties returning to mediation tomorrow, Tuesday 8th September.

“The Unions notice of strike action has not been withdrawn. However, we are pleased that this afternoon the Unions contacted us with the request to attend mediation tomorrow morning, “says Zane Fulljames, General Manager Operations. “We are keen to hear what they have to say.”

Since June, Transportation Auckland Corporation (TACL) &Cityline New Zealand Limited have been participating in negotiations, with the unions representing the majority of bus drivers & cleaners in Auckland, to agree a new combined employment agreement for their members. The Auckland Combined Unions represent bus drivers who work for Metrolink, Go West, Waka Pacific, North Star, Link, and City Circuit bus services.

The Auckland Combined Unions issued a notice of industrial action commencing 4am Wednesday September 9th and continuing until further notice.

“Such industrial action makes us unable to operate our business reliably or safely. As a result it is necessary for us to suspend all bus services from 4.00am Wednesday 9th September. This is not a decision we make lightly,” says Zane Fulljames.

“A 9.9 % increase over three years (3.5/3/3.4 % respectively) is an exceptionally fair one in this economy, “he says. “The unions’ current claims are in excess of 20 per cent over a three year period which is simply not sustainable for any business.”

“Communicating with our customers is our key priority at this time. The situation remains unchanged and we believe our customers should look for alternative ways to get to work and school on Wednesday September 9th” Mr. Fulljames continues.

“We apologise sincerely for the disruption and inconvenience caused to our customers.”

ENDS

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