New Zealand: Bus drivers in Wellington defer possible labor actions May 28 amid ongoing dispute /update 1

Event

Tramways Union bus drivers in Wellington have indefinitely deferred possible labor actions amid an ongoing collective labor agreement negotiation. Union leaders had previously threatened to initiate actions from May 28, but they have delayed the plans in order to give corporate leaders time to consider another proposal for increased pay and benefits.

Drivers could go on strike, refuse to accept fares, or take other actions in the coming days and weeks if negotiations fail.

Context

Tramways Union and NZ Bus have been negotiating a collective agreement for more than eight months. The company offered drivers a lump sum bonus, but drivers almost unanimously rejected the offer. Workers unanimously supported a no-confidence vote for NZ Bus amid the increasingly tense negotiations. Drivers remain concerned over alleged attempts to alter enhanced pay rates for late-night and weekend shifts and limits on the number of hours drivers can work without extra compensation. NZ Bus is offering a higher base salary for drivers and has encouraged the union to return to negotiations.