Hamilton public transit drivers are showing optimism as a strike deadline of Monday looms. Talking to senior bus operators the past two days, there is a belief that a strike will be averted.
I’m told, and the union will not confirm due to a media blackout, that 5 of 12 outstanding issues were settled on Tuesday and the remaining issues are “minor.”
To quote two senior drivers: ‘There’s no way we’ll strike over these [outstanding] issues.’
The negotiating teams for the city and union are meeting again today (Friday) and we should know if a strike will be averted when both parties issue statements tonight.
Thanks for keeping us updated, theres like 46 people sitting around me using this blog as their information source for this news right now.
Post author
It’s my pleasure.
I’ll do my best to relay information this afternoon. I’m working night shift tonight, so I’ll be taking two naps before 10pm and may miss the immediate updates.
Keep an eye on 900CHML and TheSpec as well.
Thanks again.
Hey Mr. Coleman,
Thank you very much for keeping us all updated; I’ve been glued to your great blog the past week. My student livelihood is at stake! I commute and hour from Stoney Creek to Mac every day, with literally no other way to get to school! I pay thousands of dollars to learn, not to be stuck at home for however long the strike is and not able to go to class or exams or hand in assignments! If the HSR strikes, I can’t see me being able to pass my semester.
Post author
Shane,
Joey works fine on the blog. I like being approachable and enjoy friendly conversation. (It’s why I’m passionate about my blog.)
I was a Grade 10 student during the last strike and missed three weeks before I found a carpool. I know how tough it can be.
Thanks for the update Mr. Coleman. The last time HSR went on strike, My husband and I end up in debt for $4500.00 We had 4 out of 5 children at the time. It was a horrific time for our family. With both parties making it difficult for the public to receive any information is causing a great amount of stress levels in our home.
Post author
Labour negotiations are tough on everyone.
It’s standard practice for a cone of silence over negotiations to prevent bargaining in the media which poison’s goodwill at the actual table.
While my stress is nowhere near what you must be feeling, many of us share it.