ARTA Very Concerned About What’s Next In Bus Dispute

ARTA says that it is very disappointed that agreement has not been reached today in respect of wage negotiations between NZ Bus and the Auckland Combined Unions.

ARTA’s CEO, Fergus Gammie says: “This is a disappointing outcome and we encourage both parties to settle this situation with urgency in respect of any potential further impact on Auckland’s bus commuters.

“In the interests of Auckland’s travelling public, it is critical that this dispute be resolved as soon as possible and resolution reached.”

Cameron Brewer, chief executive of the Newmarket Business Association says the prospect of more industrial action will only discourage people from selling the family’s second car and buying bus concessions. This does nothing to instil any confidence in any one.”

“We’ve had such a good uptake of public transport patronage in the past few years. This impasse undermines a lot of public transport progress and a lot of good will by the travelling public. It’s a shame that after months of meetings, facilitation, and a week of no bus services, the situation hasn’t progressed. Auckland deserves better,”