NO BUSES ALL DAY

Strike to shut down 10 routes

TEN Geelong bus routes will not operate on Thursday as drivers strike again over a pay dispute.

Bus company CDC advised commuters at the weekend that the industrial action by the Transport Workers’ Union would grind its services to a halt for a full day.

“Parents and schoolchildren relying on CDC’s services as part of their journey should seek alternative travel arrangements during the work stoppages,” the firm said.

McHarry’s Buslines, which provides buses on the remaining 14 routes in Geelong, will not be affected by the strike.

The relationship between the union and CDC appeared to be on the mend after drivers took protected industrial action last month, but negotia- tions fell apart following a mediation session on Friday.

TWU secretary for Victoria and Tasmania John Berger announced the stop-work later that night.

“The matter had come close to a resolution and we remain available to speak with all parties. There was nothing to stop us taking actions over the past two weeks but we decided to do everything we could to resolve the issue out of good faith and without triggering further industrial action,” Mr Berger said.

“However, while our members do not take any joy in inconveniencing the community they serve, they also need to look after themselves and their own families. These hardworking members are worth more than what the company have put on the table and have indicated that they are willing to fight for a decent living wage and a secure future.”

The union wants fixed pay increases enshrined into the new pay agreements it is negotiating with bus companies, and has noted CDC’s recent growth into new markets.

The strike means there will be no buses operating in Ballarat on Thursday, while 49 routes in Melbourne’s east and west will be affected.

“We are disappointed that despite good progress in mediation over the last three weeks, the TWU have walked away from constructive discussions in favour of industrial action that is designed to significantly disrupt the public and schoolchildren,” CDC Victorian chief Nicholas Yap said.