Tramways Union drivers in Auckland will be on strike for 24 hours at 4.00am this Friday, a decision that has surprised NZ Bus management.
“We seemed to be making good progress in discussions with the Unions last week, so this is frustrating for Auckland commuters, and all parties concerned, says NZ Bus Northern chief operating officer Shane McMahon.
“Much has been made about the lack of toilet breaks on each duty, an issue which was not raised in bargaining by the Union,” says McMahon.
“The fact is drivers get short breaks between trips, with time to go to the toilet,” he says.
“We are aware there is an issue with a shortage of toilet facilities in certain locations, and NZ Bus has been working with Auckland Transport to resolve this,” says McMahon.
McMahon says while drivers are emphasising the long working hours, these are outside of the company’s control.
“Work time rules for the industry are set by the NZ Transport Agency and are the same for all operators. Any concerns with the rules should be taken up at a central government level, he says.
McMahon believes the Unions wage demand is unrealistic in the current operating environment.
NZ Bus drivers receive $20.40 an hour, plus overtime rates of time and a quarter and time and a half according to McMahon.
He says the Union is seeking an overall increase in wage costs in the order of 10%. This cost includes a 2.95% wage increase along with increases in the shift allowance, extra sick leave and changes in work conditions.
“NZ Bus is committed to seeing real wage rates increase. We have listened to what drivers are wanting, and we have offered 1.7%, taking wages to $20.75 an hour,” says McMahon.
“We believe this is realistic and sustainable. The reality is that several of our competitors are paying their drivers a few dollars less an hour, with no overtime,” he says.
“We are sorry for the disruption this strike will cause to our Auckland customers and other commuters,” says McMahon.
“It is our priority to resolve a satisfactory conclusion with the Unions, and to resume normal services as soon as possible.”
