Bus Drivers Talks Break Down

Media release from the combined bus unions

September 28, 2009

The Auckland combined bus unions say they will issue notice of industrial action after talks with NZ Bus broke down this morning.

Combined union spokesperson Karl Andersen says the industrial action will be designed to cause the least possible disruption to commuters.

“We are trying to get a fair pay deal for drivers, not inconvenience passengers,” he says.

“It will be some form of work to rule but we haven’t decided on the details yet.”

Mr Andersen says the drivers have tried everything they could to come to a settlement including accepting an agreement expiry date after the rugby world cup to give the company peace of mind during that period.

“We consistently moderated our claims but the last offer the company made was a backward step,” he says.

ENDS