Hamilton bus drivers locked out over free rides

Hamilton bus drivers have been locked out by their bosses over plans to offer passengers free rides.

National Distribution Union spokesman Karl Andersen said the drivers began a one-day strike this morning and planned to refuse to accept fares on an ongoing basis.

"The company has responded by locking the drivers out indefinitely," he says.

Mr Andersen said the drivers were attempting to negotiate a pay raise from $13.50 to $16 an hour.

Go Bus managing director Calum Haslop said as the Union members planned to allow passengers free rides indefinitely, the company had suspended the drivers until an agreement could be reached.

"We are on contract to Environment Waikato to collect fares, which are a contribution to the overall cost of the service.
 
"By telling its drivers not to receive fares the union is putting drivers and Go Bus in the position of breaking contract which we can't allow," he said.

Mr Haslop said disruptions for passengers would be minimal with non-union members and management staff with driving experience called in to fill the gaps.

- © Fairfax NZ News