HONOLULU (KHON2) — The bus driver’s union has now returned to the bargaining table with Hawaii Teamsters, following the union’s announcement that the talks were canceled.
On Oct. 14, Oahu Transit Services announced that they were now back in talks with their union, Hawaii Teamsters and Allied Workers, Local 996, with talks to start on Oct. 15, and again next week.
Teamsters cites overwhelming support from the community for having negotiations continue, with Teamsters President Kevin Holu saying:
“We have received an outpouring of support from our TheBus ohana, our brothers and sisters at other local unions, and the public at large upon hearing that OTS canceled bargaining sessions. We are encouraged that OTS has provided counter proposals on number of important non-economic issues, but unfortunately, OTS has still not yet responded to our wage, pension, and hazard pay proposals.”
Holu added that, “We are hopeful that we will receive OTS’ full response today so that we can roll up our sleeves and make progress toward a fair contract.”
This comes after an ongoing contract dispute between the two, with OTS sending out a news release warning its riders to consider alternative transportation plans after contract negotiations on Monday, Oct. 13.
Hawaii Teamsters, which represents all 950 or so bus drivers, plus mechanics and office staff, has been working without a deal since June, when their seven-year contract expired.
OTS said it’s offering a very comprehensive package, including 100 percent medical for employees and their families, retirees and their spouses, and 100 percent contribution to pension.
Both OTS and the Teamsters said they understand the importance of TheBus for the public and the ramifications if a strike were to happen.