Bus operators support government’s move on driver breaks

30 April 2019 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Bus and Coach Association NZ (BCA) says it is committed to working alongside the government, regional councils and bus driver unions as the sector introduces the new driver break rules prescribed in changes to the Employment Relations Act which take effect from Monday 6 May.

BCA chief executive Barry Kidd said the sector has signed up to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which commits the parties to work collaboratively to try and minimise the logistical issues and transport disruptions the changes will create as bus rosters are changed.

“We are grateful for the efforts of the Minister of Transport and Minister of Workplace Relations in creating the MOU. Bus operators, who have all signed the MOU, are committed to making sure they comply with the new rules.

“The recent changes to the Employment Relations Act, which take effect from next Monday, formalise breaks for bus drivers. While this is a move supported by industry, it does create challenges, particularly in the major cities at peak time, with the need for new rosters.

“The BCA and our members have for some time been working with the Ministers, officials, regional councils, unions and drivers to assess the likely level of disruption from the legislative changes and to take steps to minimise it as we shift to new driver rosters.

“As all the parties sort through these issues, bus users might need to be prepared for some disrupted services. We hope they can be patient, and even consider alternative modes of transport if their regular service is impacted.

“Ultimately the solution will need more resourcing to provide more drivers and buses. We will keep talking to regional councils and the government on that, as part of the wider discussions about investing in public transport to relieve congestion on our roads and getting people to where they need to be,” Mr Kidd said.

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