Newcastle Bus Action: Window Sticker Wednesday!
Yesterday was a good day, with good media coverage and everyone looking like they either belonged in a kitchen or a military unit. It was a fun action and got us the publicity we wanted, which we used to flag that there were more disruptive actions on the way but that we were trying to be reasonable and not impact the public.
We met yesterday with the company and went through all the clauses attached to our log of claims, which has existed for almost a year now despite claims to the contrary. We did this in a single day, which tells you how many games have been played up to this point.
It was reasonably productive because we also agreed to a meeting each week this month to try and move things along. As a response to the meeting schedule and what seems like a commitment to proper bargaining, we pulled the Tootin’ Tuesday action scheduled for today. If they decide to be reasonable then we can reward that. Maybe with a balloon animal or small toy suitable to children.
There were also independent bargaining representatives at the table, with some discussion around classification matters and others indicating that their claims were still being developed and may take some time, referring to this as an early stage of bargaining. The was in direct contrast to suggestions that the process had already taken too long.
Tomorrow is Window Sticker Wednesday! The aim here is to put RTBU stickers on the bus, especially where people will see them. The front of the bus, the windows inside, the cabin door, anywhere it gets good visibility.
Stickers must be affixed safely and must not obstruct your visibility.
- Do not place stickers on front or rear doors.
- Do not cover mirrors, cameras, headlights/taillights, indicators, registration plates, safety signage, or any mandatory labels.
As part of your pre departure check, you may adjust the way your work is performed by affixing stickers. Please ensure you complete the full pre departure check as usual and confirm the vehicle remains safe and compliant before leaving the depot.
When you’re at a terminus and have layover time or standing time, have at it! Keep in mind that NEXT Wednesday we’re not driving anything with a sticker, so enjoy!
The company has written to us to try and pressure the union into pulling this action. We are writing back and are completely confident that the action is legal and their threats are not. Let’s be clear, this action is NOT unprotected.
Anyone who gets pressure from management or yard supervisors should report it to your local delegate immediately.
Remember, the Geotab fob swap is still ongoing, as is the BDC action and uniform ban preferably with you attention catching beret!
We’re getting the movement we wanted, let’s keep it going!