HSR union in strike position on January 30

[Ciel]

There is an article in the Hamilton Spectator about the no-board report issued by the Ministry of Labour, so the ATU union will be able to strike on January 30.
http://www.thespec.com/news/local/article/654076--strike-or-lockout-position-days-away-for-city-s-bus-drivers

I sincerely hope there is no strike.

As far as I know, the York Region strike continues.
http://www.york.ca/YRT%2c+Viva+labour+dispute.htm

[KK7]

thank goodness I walk to work!!!(oh and no it isn't a short walk lol I just like to clear the air lol)

[FallenPixels]

I overheard some bus drivers discussing it at the GO station last week, they kept repeating that they are paid less than garbage collectors when they hold people's lives in their hands and garbage collectors do not.

I hate that neither side is willing to publish fully what they are offering / wanting - but on the occasions I have taken HSR at rush hour, I have stood there waiting while they are on their cell phones, having a smoke, stopped into Timmies or a coffee shop while already running 15 mins late, I have little sympathy for them to be honest

The only sign of actual money talk I have seen is a quote on joey coleman's blog where they say the pay raise given to Bratina's Chief of Staff would allow for a $50 raise for each of them. If they are only after $1 a week, is it worth all the bad feeling and a strike (on either side) so I assume they do really want more than that

[Ciel]

Since garbage collection has been privatized for at least a decade, it would be difficult to find pays unless a job posting provides it.
Green for Life Environmental East Corporation is a garbage collection contractor for many areas of Hamilton (don't know who does the other areas).

Council tomorrow will talk about a 7 year garbage contract to begin in April 2013. Contractor will change.
http://www.hamilton.ca/NR/rdonlyres/D62FE8ED-0790-48C1-B8CE-73007F29FA78/0/Jan16EDRMS_n254893_v1_7_1__PW11030d.pdf

There had been a transit driver posting in December but am not sure if it was for HSR or DARTS.

[Fibrana]

Personally, I do not think bus drivers should be allowed to strike. Too many of us are dependent on the bus service. Luckily, years ago when they were on strike, I was able to find a lady to get a ride with, but I felt like it was a big inconvenience. It is an essential service to many of us. Also, why do some drivers have to BRAKE so hard??? A lot of us almost fall down because we are holding on to the pole with one arm!

[Ciel]

The latest article on the bus union and City of Hamilton negotiations:
http://www.thespec.com/news/local/article/661853--hsr-talks-continue-as-strike-date-looms